Brian Stanley (Laois, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the representatives of the four organisations. Perhaps they feel their voices have not been heard on these matters. We welcome their presence at the committee meeting.

Before I go to members for questions, I propose that members direct their questions to a specific organisation rather than to all four organisations. Everybody will have a number of questions. Members should put their questions to the representative of a specific organisation.

I have a number of brief questions. My question for ICOS is about the co-operative potential. I was very interested in what was said about the potential for co-ops and biogas. Do the witnesses see it as a real alternative? Is there a lot of potential in terms of second and third incomes for farmers? It is not just the premium from beef and milk but perhaps also from energy. Has ICOS looked at models in any other countries that could be held up as an example? Will the witnesses keep their answers brief?