The importation of thousands of tonnes of potatoes and other foods worth billions of euro highlights the need for a greater focus on food sustainability by the next Government according to a Laois-Offaly TD.
Fianna Fáil TD for Laois-Offaly Seán Fleming has said Ireland needs to move towards becoming less reliant on agri and consumer food imports to make the country’s food supply more secure and sustainable.
“In 2018 Ireland imported over €9.7 billion in the agri-food sector and €3.6 billion in prepared consumer foods, totalling €13.3 billion.
“According to the CSO, Ireland imported 72,000 tonnes of potatoes, 47,000 tonnes of onions, 29,000 tonnes of tomatoes, 23,000 tonnes of cabbage and 15,000 tonnes of lettuce in 2017. …I think many people will be surprised that we have such high imports, in particular of foodstuff much of which can be produced here. Food security and sustainability must be a priority for the next Government,” concluded Deputy Fleming.
Report by Conor Ganly of Offaly Express here
Photo: Potatoes were one of the most imported foodstuffs into Ireland | Offaly Express
