Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am conscious of the time and I am conscious that every conceivable question has probably been asked. In respect of the fertiliser regulation, we have had the interactions previously. While I cannot speak for everyone, the view of this committee is that while the principle of the regulation is good, it is unworkable because of the Border. The witnesses have outlined the challenges that that will present, as Mr. Farrell will know well, in the Border region where in many instances a farmer's closest merchant may be on the opposite side of the Border. That applies equally to people on both sides. There are potential implications for a farmer who does not know the detail of the regulation and happens to buy a trailer-load of fertiliser in one place without realising that that places an obligation on them. I believe that is unworkable. We will convey that message. Do the witnesses have other concerns with the regulation outside that?

Without going into all the difficulties, we have had much discussion on the implications for the licensed merchant sector and the co-ops in respect of the veterinary medical aspect of the legislation. Have the members of the organisations represented here relayed their concerns? They have a particular interest in their own livelihoods and futures. Up to now the responsible person and not just the vets themselves had the opportunity to dispense. Is that important to the members of the organisations represented here?

I ask for more detail on the data protection concerns, particularly the sharing of data with Bord Bia and the quality assurance audits. We may need to engage with Bord Bia to try to get clarification.