The re-opening of the organic farming scheme for 2013 has been welcomed by the Irish Organic Farmers and Growers Association.

Trials of genetically modified potatoes are not at odds with promoting and researching organic systems in Ireland, organic producers have been told.

Consumers continue to purchase organic food despite recent US scientific studies that questioned the validity of organic claims, the Irish Organic Food Growers group has said.

Organic farmers and anti-GM groups have described the EPA’s decision to sanction the growing of genetically modified potatoes in Ireland as irresponsible and short-sighted.

Ireland has been given the green light for genetically modified potato trials, despite our status as a GM-free Island, writes Oliver Moore

Sales of organic food continued to rise across Europe during 2011, a trend welcomed by the sector in Ireland.

FROM an organic farming perspective, the year just passed was an eventful one.

GILLIAN WESTBROOK is the new general manager of the Irish Organic Farmers and Growers Association, IOFGA. This position will involve planning, managing and organisation for IOFGA.

CONSUMERS will lose a unique product if the Government drives ahead with its plan to ban raw milk sales, warn agri-food leaders.

LEADING chef and television presenter Clodagh McKenna has warned that the Government’s U-turn on genetically modified (GM) foods will damage Ireland’s reputation.

THE deadline for the receipt of application forms for the fourth National Organic Awards is next Monday.