Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes, farmers pay an initial fee to join the quality assurance scheme, which, I presume, all organic farmers must join in any event.

We could go on for ever but we have given the issues a good airing. The committee has been enlightened by the debate and members have, perhaps, been surprised by what they have been told. We will take on board what has been said. It has been agreed that we will invite the Minister, his officials and representatives from Bord Bia to discuss how to advance the issue. We will be in touch again with the witnesses and will notify them of any meetings that take place. If we draw up recommendations, we will furnish them to the witnesses.

I thank the delegates for taking the time to visit us to make their presentation.