Irish shoppers should buy homegrown fruit and vegetables to support jobs, Minister of State Trevor Sargent said today.
The Green Party TD and part-time organic farmer said local produce is now available in supermarkets after the recent harvest.
The Minister for Food and Horticulture added that Irish fruit and vegetables taste better than imported goods and use less carbon fuel to get to the shelves.
"September is a great month for new season Irish fruit and vegetables," he said. "The wet weather, especially during June and July, prevented planting but fresh produce planted earlier has now ripened.
"Yields are a bit down, but the harvest is now in with new season, freshly-picked locally grown produce in the shops."
The Minister asked consumers to look out for locally grown carrots, Brussels sprouts, leeks, parsnips, swedes and potatoes, as well as apples, which are all coming into season alongside Irish strawberries, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, kale, lettuce, mushrooms, peppers, scallions, tomatoes and turnips.
"Fresh local food tastes good and, with less transport, is also better for the environment," he said. "By supporting local producers, you're making an investment in the long-term viability of your own community."