Mr. Cormac Healy:

On the meat industry and the primary processing industry represented by Meat Industry Ireland, MII, I repeat that direct employment of workers by the company is what happens and is the mainstay of this industry. On the agency workers' question, as she stated, at a previous sitting of the committee I said that we have looked at this further and have surveyed members. We believe the situation as far as MII members are concerned is that less than 2% of the workforce is provided by agencies. What is being claimed is not the case and it is important to clarify that.

On go-forward situations, this is an essential service. The powers are there to close facilities. On an outbreak or a situation, that will be determined by the local health authorities.