Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)

They are crying out for a national organic symbol. There is no point in replying that we cannot figure that out because there are three certification bodies. We had a buy Irish symbol which did not relate to one manufacturer only. In effect, it is a national symbol under which all certified organic produce can be sold, which is needed if marketing in the organic sector is to be successful. This sector needs aggressive marketing because it is up against it from other countries.

In eastern Europe, Poland currently has more farmland free from pesticides than most countries in Europe. Hungary already sells 95% of its organic output abroad and its exports are growing at a staggering 20% per year. Bulgaria is getting in on the act, as is Romania. We are not just talking about EU countries, but others in eastern Europe. Some 10% of Austria's agricultural output is organic. It has been predicted that a considerable amount of Austria will be GMO-free because the buffer zones around organic farms cannot grow GM crops, so in effect, it will be a GMO-free country. However, the Government has voted for the importation of GM sweetcorn to the EU, even though there has not been any testing in regard to human health. The Government is failing in its responsibilities. The Bill is an opportunity to highlight that, but I hope also an opportunity to see the potential which the Government has not realised.

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