Teagasc and the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Maritime Affairs, Charlie McConalogue, have both stated that Brexit is negatively affecting the quantities of seed potatoes that Irish growers can import from the UK. However, this can also have a positive side, as it can create opportunities for new and existing seed potato growers in Ireland to expand their business as growers try to meet all seed potato needs with locally grown seed potatoes sector.
Speaking for the recent Teagasc Seed Potato webinar, Minister McConalogue said: “I am keen to see the potato plant sector develop and advance. The Irish potato sector is a critical part of our agri-food sector and has proven to be very resilient. Brexit is a additional challenge, especially in the context of seed potatoes. After Brexit, there have been exchanges with colleagues in the UK and the EU on the equivalence of sanitary and phytosanitary measures (SPS), especially with regard to seed potatoes. “
“These exchanges are now hardened and it does not look like further steps will be taken that could facilitate the 2021 season. Sufficient plant stocks have been secured for this season. But of course the focus is now on next year and the year after. , in terms of securing a sustainable supply of seed potatoes for our domestic sector. “
McConalogue further pointed out that in a post-Brexit scenario, there are opportunities to increase the supply of Irish-grown seed potatoes. “My department is now in talks with all relevant stakeholders to raise awareness of these issues. But this potential can only be realized if we have a close collaboration of all relevant groups.”
According to an article on agriland.ie , the minister has left no doubt that the ultimate goal in this regard should be an increase in seed potato production in Ireland.
