Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

In the main those associated with my Department are vehemently opposed to the removal of the groceries order. The farming organisations have not come to a particular decision on the issue and I will be interested to hear their opinions in due course in consultation with the Minister. The Deputy is right in saying that much food goes to the processing industry and many of our food companies have done well in the production of novel consumer and health foods. It is difficult to ascertain whether this warrants the removal of the groceries order based on the fact that many of those involved in food manufacturing, who are represented by IBEC, vehemently support the groceries order. Therein lies the problem. Ultimately it will be a political issue. People want to see reduced prices and farmers want a good return on their investment. Sometimes it is very difficult to balance the two.

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