Professor Gerry Boyle:

I want to be very clear about this. In no way does that compromise our independence. I have given the Deputy the example of a situation where, separate to this matter, we have these joint programmes in which we draw up a specific contract with the same co-ops. These contracts might have regard to improvement in protein on farms, reducing carbon footprint, or whatever else it might be. The Deputy is right. It is a challenging issue. It is very challenging. It is something we repeatedly discuss at the full authority level. The question always comes back to me being asked by the chairman or members of the authority whether I am absolutely sure that Teagasc's independence is not compromised.