Dr. Ewen Mullins:

As the Deputy mentioned, we were here about a year and a half ago. What is being proposed at the moment in terms of category 1, will definitely lead to the development of novel varieties that have the potential to reduce pesticide input and to have greater nutrient use efficiency. In light of the challenges the Deputy outlined, we need all the tools available not just to Teagasc, but also to the community, the sector, the public and academics. For anybody who is developing varieties, be they grass, clover or arable varieties, these tools will be very important. Among the conditions for category 1 is that it covers plants with up to 20 modifications but, as Dr. O'Reilly stated, there are five different types.

To give a clear example, there could be a variety where there could be four modifications. That could include four genes for resistance to a particular disease. That would equip that variety with a new ability in the field. There is also the opportunity to enhance the quality of the material. That would be another maybe five or six modifications. The variety would still be under the target of 20. As regards category 1, it is basically accelerating the breeding process. It could be done through conventional means, but that would take decades. That is really what it comes down to.