Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I compliment the Chairman on bringing the topic before the committee. We all have received correspondence on this issue, which affects the agricultural community regarding the competition element. These merchants provide competition in the marketplace. They provide the forum to have farmers trade competitively whether it is through co-operatives or stand-alone entities. Moving away from that model would have a great impact on the profitability not only of beef and sheep sectors but also the dairy sector.

What products might be affected by this? The public might have a greater understanding of it. There would be the usual dosing for cattle, but vaccinations for bovine viral diarrhoea, BVD, and leptospirosis are available through some if not all merchant suppliers. Will they all be affected by the lack of competition as well? Will there be a significant knock-on effect where the only main supplier will be the vet and farmers will be tied into that vet?

I do not think there will be the competition of someone going to a different vet. I think people will use the same vet they have always used, and that will compound the effect of being unable to argue one's price. That will be a significant issue in regard to the intricacies of trying to ensure a fair price for the product.

Our guests mentioned the QQI level 6 course, which has raised the standard for pharmacists. It will be a slap in the face for generations that have gone through the course if they are told that the work they have all undertaken is not credible in any sense. Will our guests elaborate on what would be the benefit of doing that course, and what the course will stand for after this, if we do not get the derogation? This is a very significant issue for our industry.

I thank our guests for their contributions, but we need to hear from the Department to see exactly why it faces a stumbling block with regard to the derogation.