Two new varieties of apples have been developed, perfectly suited for growing in the Irish climate.
The Irish apple industry could boost the Exchequer by £10 million pounds per year, if growers here adapt to changing consumer tastes and compete with the ongoing influx of apples from France. Seventeen million imported apples make their way onto supermarket and shop shelves every year, but an increase in Irish-grown apples will provide
A defence against an annual inflow of millions of little green invaders.
Researchers at the Agricultural Institute's Pomology Research Centre in Dungarvan have spent two years trialing different apple varieties. RTÉ News reporter Michael Ryan is shown the results – two new cultivars called Jonagold and Katya, both suited for growing in Ireland.
The Agricultural Institute (An Foras Talúntais) is recommending these apples to Irish growers, as they are on a par with the popular French Golden Delicious variety, says Principal Research Officer Niall Kennedy,
They're good productive varieties and they're beautiful apples to eat.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 22 September 1980. The reporter is Michael Ryan.
