Measures sought to boost organic food production

Organic farmers are today calling on the Government to take stronger measures to boost the production of organic food in Ireland.

In a pre-budget submission, the Irish Organic Farmers and Growers Association says Irish produce could make up 80% of organic food sales in the domestic market within the next four years.

At present, up to 70% of organic products sold in Ireland are imported from abroad.

Elsewhere, the association is also calling on local authorities to provide more land for organic allotments and for a consumer awareness campaign to educate people about the benefits of growing their own food.