Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In the long run, it found the right niche, although it might have taken a while. This programme will probably be the surprise package because it can do so much for efficiency. If the 400-day calving interval could be brought down to 380 days, it would make a large difference to profitability, carbon emissions, feed costs and so forth. Recently, I spoke to a man who had no e-mail or online access and had to attend his Teagasc adviser. He was shown he had one five-star cow that he did not know he had. He is now convinced about the programme, even though he is still looking for someone to fill it in for him.

I thank the delegation for the presentation and the committee members who contributed to this meeting.