Mr. Greg Ennis:

I thank the Deputy for his question. We have been on the public record since April seeking this farm to fork task force. I really meant those words. From the very start of the process, from the animal on a farm getting to the abattoir and the meat then getting to the market, there is a microscope to be shone on the industry.

I take the Deputy's point that turnover is one thing and profit is another but there are significant profits being made on the sweat of workers' backs. In many cases, and particularly in the white meat industry, these people are getting €10.10 per hour, with no sick pay or pension provision and basic leave entitlement. It is the same with the red meat and pork segments. There are different areas with differing pay rates relating to skill sets and so on but in the main we are seeing workers getting €12 or €13 per hour, including the piece rate.

It is immeasurable. We have had a recent situation with SEOs. I believe the Government may be appealing that High Court judgment and I wish it well with it. At the end of the day that is what it will take to sort this out. As part of this process we need to bring in all the participants in the meat industry, not just the processors - the farmers, workers and consumers - to bring about a solution that will work for everyone. Covid will be with us and that is what we are here to discuss. Some of the experts say we will have if for a decade or more. Meat will be with us. We have one shot at this and we must fix it.