Mr. Colm Hayes:

On the overall point, it is clear we are outlining a high level of ambition today, as the Minister and the programme for Government have done previously. We are, essentially, on the same page as the Deputy in regard to the achievement of this. It is clear, as the earlier group of witnesses said, that it will require putting our shoulders to the wheel, and a level of investment, to an extent that has not been seen when it comes to organic farming, and the advisory services, the farm bodies, the processing sectors, Bord Bia and Teagasc will have a key role to play. I have no doubt of the commitment of all those organisations to achieving this, having watched the proceedings of the committee in recent days and having heard from all of them. This is one area where everybody is in agreement that an enhanced level of ambition is needed, and we are here to highlight the role of the Department and the Minister in that regard and our belief and strong level of ambition. There will be no shortage of effort and it will require everybody to put their shoulders to the wheel.

I do not have an answer to the question on cattle prices for organic farmers but I will research that and respond to the committee directly on that point.

On the minimum stocking rate, I might invite my colleague, Mr. Barron, to comment. There are important reasons it is used but it might help the committee's understanding if we were to outline them.