Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I thank Mr. Cotter and his colleagues for giving us an overview of the difficulties facing the dairy industry this year. Managing price volatility is not really the job of Bord Bia. However, part and parcel of Bord Bia's job is ensuring that markets are secured and held. The presentation was encouraging in outlining how Bord Bia is seeking new markets. The overview has to be positive but, as Mr. Cotter will gather from members of the committee, in light of all that has happened in the economy generally, with every opportunity there is always a health warning not to lose the run of ourselves, no matter who is involved. According to the New Zealand model, people have become busier. They are more indebted but are not making more money. There are all sorts of possible issues surrounding the environment and animal welfare as well. That is why it has played on the minds of members here.

I thank the witnesses for attending the committee. I propose suspending the meeting for a couple of minutes to allow them to withdraw, while other witnesses take their seats.