Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I apologise for not being here earlier. I was delayed due to weather conditions. I wish to respond to what was said about the need for farmers to diversify. Our grass-based system makes dairy and beef our primary outputs. It is not that easy to diversify while still making an income. I think it is often lost in the debate that we have very sustainable food production systems. If food production in Ireland or in Europe was to be significantly reduced, food would be brought in from less sustainable systems elsewhere. This would add to the whole emissions problem. I think our approach to livestock, dairy and beef gives us particular advantages in this area. I understand why farmers are reluctant to diversify away from that approach.