William Aird (Laois, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Of course. I have my six minutes. I make the point that we want to be very clear here today. I do not have to ask the witnesses questions. I asked questions a fortnight ago and I know all of the answers. We want to ensure that, as politicians elected by the people, we adhere to the election manifestoes that both Deputy Cleere and I bought in to. Deputy Cleere bought in to a manifesto that promised €60 million and would provide €6 million. It is important to remember that point here today. I outlined the history before I was interrupted. Had we supported the suckler industry in this country, we would not have had 100,000 cows slaughtered. I spoke to the Deputy about Mohill and Carrigallen and going to the marts today. There is not a quarter of the cattle in them that there was in years gone by. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. It is a terrible pity that all of that happened in this country. We were proud of the cattle and the products we produced and the grass system we have. I thank the witnesses. I wanted to say that. I will certainly not be found wanting. I have the support of people.