Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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There is an issue with the food chain generally. The people who feel most cheated in the food chain are the primary producer and the consumer at the other end. There is an initiative by the Commission from which we expect to receive a report at the back end of the year. The European Commissioner, Mr. Phil Hogan, has said he might be able to bring forward proposals early in 2017. In February the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation introduced new regulations to strengthen the position of the primary producer in dealings with the multiples. This is an area in which ongoing vigilance is required to ensure they are working and having the desired effect. That was the intent behind the legislation. I take the Deputy's broad point. We have to be conscious of the fact, however, that we are an island nation and need to get 90% of our product, whether it be dairy, sheepmeat or beef, to the market.

On Deputy Thomas Pringle's inquiry about the inspection regime, in terms of animal health, it is pretty much standard. It covers meat plant supervision and the detection regime, about which we spoke with reference to clenbuterol.

In the area of plant health, for example, we have surveys of horticultural nurseries, garden centres, public parks, private properties, etc. We are involved in a range of activities in that area to try to ensure we protect that sector, which is a significant employer.