AQW 4296/22-27

Mr Jim Allister KC
Traditional Unionist Voice
North Antrim

Tabled Date: 07/10/2022
Answered On Date: 18/10/2022
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) what is the risk to the ware potato production arising from the Protocol; and (ii) whether there is an adverse impact on the importation of GB seed potatoes.

Answer:

The main risk to Northern Ireland ware potato production, flows from the dependence of this sector on sourcing seed potatoes, of particular varieties, from GB, to meet established local market demand for ware potatoes. The supply of seed potato varieties used by ware potato growers have traditionally been sourced from Scotland. Due to prohibitions on seed potatoes, as a result of the implementation of the Protocol, this supply is now unavailable. I have repeatedly raised the unacceptability of this situation with HMG.

I am aware, that the sector recognises, that seed potato production within Northern Ireland is currently insufficient to enable local growers to meet ware market requirements. My Department has confirmed that it will assist the sector, where possible, in its consideration of improving the sustainability and resilience of the sector.