The seed potato sector in Ireland is to be strengthened. In order to strengthen cultivation in Ireland, the Dublin Ministry of Agriculture has made EUR 3.1 million (CHF 3.09 million) available for targeted investments.
In addition, according to him, the subsidy will be extended to producers of potatoes suitable for frying. The aim of the investment aid is to promote the expansion of capacities in the domestic seed potato sector by promoting the infrastructure for production, storage and marketing of seed potatoes. Applicants are granted grants of 40% for machinery and equipment, young farmers receive up to 60%. The funds for this come from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR) allocated to Ireland.
Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue sees the aid that has now been launched as a response to the challenges that the Irish potato sector is facing after Brexit. He pointed out that as of 1 January 2021, around 4 000 tonnes of seed potatoes that had been imported from the UK up until then would no longer be allowed to be shipped to Ireland. In addition, according to the ministry, Ireland imports around 64,000 tonnes of fresh potatoes from the UK.
Meanwhile, the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) warned of higher producer prices for the root crop last week. Association President Tim Cullinan referred to the sharp rise in manufacturing costs. At a meeting of potato farmers, he complained that the current wholesale prices for potatoes did not cover the farmers’ costs. Cullinan sees the retail trade as primarily responsible. Without a price increase, continued supply by farmers will be called into question. Potato growers are then likely to withdraw from production.
