Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Part of an exercise such as this involves Mr. White being listened to, but he should do the other participants the courtesy of listening in return. He has demonstrated to me by his remarks that he has not listened to one word we have said. Given the seriousness of this issue, I find it most disappointing that Mr. White has not taken the time to note the points we have made. Contrary to what he has endeavoured to make the record of my participation, I made no reference to personal responsibility. In fact, I highlighted the fact that the priorities of the body Mr. White has set off this morning to attack were focused on the responsibility to pregnant women and children. My focus was in respect of the food and beverage sector. I made it clear that there needs to be an address of the industry. I mooted the idea of research and development incentives and indicated that I had no issue about whether carrot or stick was employed. I also referred to what is sometimes termed a sugar tax, but I was referring to excess. Those are the points I made. The point I made subsequently related to the affordability of access to various activities. As a Dáil representative of many years, I am aware that this is a serious situation for families. The families I represent find it difficult to cope in these times of austerity. At the least, Mr. White should do me the courtesy of addressing or recognising what I have said. I welcomed his contribution and I said it was challenging. In reflecting on what I have said, I would prefer if he would do so accurately.