Ms Diane Ruddock:

There are always opportunities to be taken. As a general comment, we are all greatly heartened and encouraged by the warmth of the committee's interest and the shared concern members have all expressed. We would be very happy to find ways to keep the committee updated on our progress or to seek members' further help, support and encouragement in the future.

In response to Senator Francesd Black's suggestion, we would very much welcome the opportunity to brief the Seanad committee also. We are aware that our colleagues from the Ulster Farmers Union appeared before that committee recently. It is always good to talk and that would certainly be helpful.