Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remember my other question. The Minister and Bord Bia have had success in finding new markets for our meat and increasing live exports. Notwithstanding this, I noted in coverage in respect of the Chinese market that there was concern that the meat processors would not have enough meat to send to it. However, this demand does not appear to help the farmer, the primary producer. This was raised by Senator Lombard as well, but how do we protect them from the volatility of the price they receive given their vulnerable position? I am aware there are EU-wide endeavours to protect the primary producer, recognising the producers' weak bargaining position in the food supply chain. It appears that no matter what good work is done by the Minister and the agencies to find new markets in which to sell, farmers are still in the same predicament of not getting money for the animals they produce.