Halloween Harvest Under Threat
Summary
This episode examines the impact of Ireland's record-breaking summer heat on the agricultural sector, featuring experts from Chagas, the IFA, and local growers. The discussion highlights significant yield reductions in potatoes, pumpkins, and other vegetables, with some crops down by 50%. While consumers may face reduced promotions and smaller produce sizes, the panel notes that supply remains stable and prices have not yet surged.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Heatwave impact on Irish agriculture
Shea Phelan on potato harvest conditions
Assessing potato yield reduction and supply balance
Impact on other vegetables like carrots and cabbages
Niamh Brennan on drought duration and grower costs
Challenges for protected crops and glasshouses
Supply continuity, European comparison, and food prices
Richard Odlam on pumpkin harvest difficulties
Pumpkin sizes for Halloween and butternut squash success
Tom Keogh on Keogh's Crisps yield reduction
Regional rainfall differences and export strategy
Long-term irrigation investments and future supply concerns
Potential changes in pricing and supermarket promotions
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