Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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I thank Professor Matthews for taking the time to present to the committee, as well as for his ongoing research as an agricultural economist and his contribution to the agricultural sector.

I have a couple of key questions. Today's well-flagged announcement by the British Prime Minister, Ms Theresa May, on the UK's intention to go for a hard Brexit is, as the witnesses pointed out, quite concerning for agriculture more so than any other sector. It raises many serious questions with which we are going to have to grapple. Professor Matthews said that he would flesh out his view on the various sectors if he asked to do so. I would certainly be interested in hearing his view. He mentioned lamb and I would like to hear his perspective, which will be different to those relating to other sectors. I would like to hear his thoughts on how Brexit will affect the various sectors.

It is difficult to estimate but what would be the potential loss to the value of our various sectors in the event of a hard Brexit? I am also interested in the witness's perspective on where Brexit might leave British agriculture. It is not what we are looking at in this committee but I would like to hear the comparative analysis in respect of it.

What is Professor Matthew's perspective on the quest for new markets in the event of having to find alternatives? What are the best options and what would the timeline be in the context of being able to develop realistic and viable alternative markets?