Value of horticulture is highlighted

THE important role that the horticulture sector plays in the economy in terms of employment and foreign trade was spelled out by Agriculture and Food Minister Mary Coughlan yesterday.

She said annual farm-gate production is valued at €270 million and retail sales in the order of €650m. The sector employs 10,000 people across the production and distribution chain.

Ms Coughlan, launching a Country Crest onion facility in Rathmooney, Lusk, Co Dublin, said the Hoey family has progressed its 75-year old potato and horticulture business into a modern, value-added industry employing 84 people.

The company has built up an important grower base, contracting over 26,000 tonnes of potatoes per annum, she said.