Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his presentation and his officials. This industry has gone through hard economic times in recent years. If there was ever a good time to apply a levy to pig farmers, it might be now with profitability starting to rise for the first time in many years. Every industry faces new challenges. It is essential research into animal health is carried out, and the pig population face many health challenges at various stages. Research in that area would be more than welcome. In July 2017, the Government pledged funding of €125,000 per annum for three years. Is it envisaged with the industry's agreement that it will contribute 4 cent per pig and, with respect to the Government contribution of €125,000, that it will continue to match the producer’s contribution?