Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I agree with Deputy Upton. Mr. Coakley's views are ones we would hope to reflect in this dairy investment scheme, where we are looking at a vision for, and new opportunities within, agriculture. As Deputy Upton will be aware, my view is that in the milk sector there are still opportunities for exploitation of the baseline produce whether in protein, healthy living or looking at new alternatives on the high-tech side or, equally, in cheese production. Mr. Coakley's views have been more than helpful and the dairy investment scheme will reflect a number of those initiatives. From hearsay, quite a number of people are looking at cheese development. Deputy Upton is correct. How is it that an Irish company is the largest producer of cheese in the United States of America? We, in Ireland, should be involved in cheese production.

In answer to Deputy Brady, we have enjoyed much success in the small and artisan food sector. Under the Minister of State, Deputy Brendan Smith, an additional €4 million has been made available to An Bord Bia, which is looking at providing a centre of excellence, particularly supporting artisan and small food producer development and linking with what has happened in Leader and county enterprise boards. There are still niche markets and small opportunities for people in the sector. I note that at any of the awards ceremonies and shows here, in the UK and elsewhere that I have attended recently, many of our excellence awards came from people, particularly in the cheese sector, who are small dairy producers who have innovated to create another type of employment for themselves. Much strength has been gleaned by a number of these companies coming together under Cáis. There are niche opportunities which can provide a suitable income for people linking with the food and tourism strategy in this country.

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