The Irish horticulture sector faces an estimated €4.46 million impact from Storm Éowyn. The Irish Farmers' Association (IFA), alongside the Organic Growers of Ireland (OGI) and Teagasc, assessed preliminary damages. The storm, occurring during a critical planting period, affected glasshouses, nurseries, mushrooms, and organic growers, damaging polytunnels, crops, and equipment.
At the Horticulture Industry Forum (HIF) meeting, IFA Horticulture Committee chair Mark Walsh noted "positive engagement" with Minister of State for Horticulture, Micheal Healy-Rae. The meeting addressed the storm's impact on the commercial horticulture sector, highlighting structural repair and stock loss challenges.
Walsh stated the €4.46 million estimate covers direct losses, excluding business disruptions from damaged structures. He emphasized the minister's willingness to understand the storm's challenges, citing a commitment to review IFA's assistance request for affected growers.
During discussions, the IFA underscored growers' challenges, such as input costs impacting margins in a "stressed sector." They addressed the influence of major retailers in the food supply chain and advocated for enhanced Agri-Food Regulator powers. The need for effective government-grower engagement in labor availability was also discussed.
The delegation highlighted the sector's need for support in transitioning away from native peat until alternatives are viable. They also stressed the importance of addressing seed potato availability and called for a temporary derogation until the Irish seed sector develops.
Source: Agriland