Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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I understand the point made by the Deputy but I do not believe that the amendment would achieve that purpose. As he knows, we have introduced very comprehensive legislation on the food supply chain. I do not believe amendment No. 28 is fit for purpose regarding the issue raised.

I realise that the fertiliser market is challenging. It is an open market so anyone can import fertiliser from anywhere, including Northern Ireland. There is lots of opportunity for many businesses to import.

I understand the recent price challenge. As members will know, I introduced the fodder scheme last year and provided up to €1,000 per farm family to support them with additional costs. The scheme will operate again this year and I forward paid a significant part of that at the end of last year. We are starting to see international prices come down. We need to see that happen and reflected in our domestic market as well and I concur with the fact that we need to see that. Finally, I reiterate that the amendment is not appropriate to achieve that purpose.