Survey on national strategy for Irish horticulture sector now open

Submissions will contribute to the development a more profitable value-added sector driven by sustainability and innovation

Horticulture

Read More: Horticulture Industry Industry Update

3 November 2022

The next phase of the public consultation on the development of a National Strategy for the Horticulture sector has been launched.

Interested stakeholders including those outside of the sector itself, have been invited to assess and prioritise the cross-cutting factors and actions outlined in KPMG’s report on Opportunities for the Irish Horticulture sector.

Submissions received, in conjunction with cost benefit analysis and further desk research, will help inform a strategic roadmap to develop a more profitable value-added sector driven by sustainability and innovation. The National Strategy for Horticulture to 2030 is due for publication in Q1 2023.

“This important report includes a significant number of proposed actions that could contribute to growth for the sector,” said Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue. “There is no single, simple solution and resources will need to be allocated where they will have the most impact. This consultation phase will help inform the priority actions to be addressed in the new National Strategy for the sector. This is a sector that I want to see grow and flourish in the time ahead and I think this report will play an important role.”

Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity with special responsibility for Horticulture, Senator Pippa Hackett, said: “I am looking forward to meeting with sector representatives on Wednesday and hearing first hand and in person their views on the opportunities outlined in the report. However, I would also encourage other interested parties to make a submission. This presents an opportunity for joined up thinking on how best to grow this sector.”

The deadline for responses is 30 November. The survey is available to complete at: ec.europa.eu/Horticulturesectorstrategydevt Written submissions may also be emailed to horticulturestrategy@agriculture.gov.ie or posted to Horticulture and Plant Health Division, Backweston, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, W23 X3PH.

Read More: Horticulture Industry Industry Update