Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)

In the context of the aforementioned report and given what has happened in the sugar, pig and poultry industries recently, we could reach the authors' prediction on the number of farmers in Ireland in 2025 very soon.

The Minister referred to the artisan food companies. The Internet certainly is a potential vehicle for them but there must be an overall structure provided by Bord Bia so that they are not scattered, willy-nilly, all over the Internet. We must develop a co-ordinated approach to Internet sales. Has the Minister taken any steps in that regard?

The level of flexibility in dealing with the Department of Agriculture and Food is great for those who have access to the Internet. The Department must be complimented in that regard. However, many people will never be able to avail of it. Has the Minister had discussions with the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources about making that technology available via the local post office network for the many people who neither have Internet access nor the skills to access the facilities made available by the Department?

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