Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

We are all listening. Mushroom producers have been through a difficult time in recent years. While the number of producers has reduced, the output is still good. We are anxious to maintain and develop the industry. We have provided support and investment and Bord Bia has done a great deal of work to promote the industry.

Deputy Naughten wants commercial farmers to be looked after while Deputy Crawford is looking out for small farmers. There are a few large farmers in his constituency. New methods must be developed to support different farmers. REPS has been helpful for small farming enterprises. With regard to alternatives, we have debated why farmers are not going into organic farming, despite the significant money being made available in this area, which is not being taken up. Free range farming also presents a significant opportunity. It is almost as easy, if not cheaper, than organic farming. Members should visit the farmers in County Louth who have taken up free range farming. They have done well and they achieve higher prices for their products. We must think outside the box.

The Teagasc office issue is a kick for touch job. The issue has been raised and the three Ministers will meet Teagasc representatives in this regard. However, the issue must be examined in a pragmatic, sensible way. Will we approach this in a professional manner or will we leave the service as it has been for the past 40 or 50 years? Teagasc's advisory service is superb but a first class service, including an outreach facility, must be provided while working with farmers. Many Teagasc employees go out and about to talk to farmers and they are very much part of the community. A number of issues arise regarding the closure of offices, which are politically sensitive. We will examine them but the Teagasc board makes the decisions, not the Department.

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