Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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I thank our guests from the Irish Organic Association and the Organic Growers of Ireland. If time allows, over the course of the hearing, can witnesses outline specifically what they see their role as organisations vis-à-visthe other organic groups and farm organisations that we have spoken about. We need to move to a point where we have a clear voice coming from the organic sector and the witnesses' organisations. Judging by their opening statements, they have done a significant amount of work researching and outlining how this sector can be supported and grown in the coming years. We all agree that we have an embarrassing level of organic farming in this State and it is something we need to have tighter control over.

In both statements, the witnesses highlighted the need for increased marketing, CAP supports and additional advisory supports. In each of these areas, what are the witnesses specifically asking for? On the scheme, how much do we need? How should we change that scheme to make it more attractive and fairer? How much needs to be invested in marketing? I asked a question earlier about whether we need to ring-fence a portion of Bord Bia's budget towards this and likewise with advisers. How can it be best delivered in terms of advisory support?

Are we looking at Bord Bia or Teagasc or is there a need for a separate body with a specific remit around organic farming? What is the secret ingredient we need to bring the current dismal levels of organic farming towards the EU average, and beyond that, towards the EU targets in coming years? Are there one or two proposals this committee could recommend to the Department?