Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)

There is no question but that the cost of energy can pose dangers to Irish agriculture and industry. We have seen examples in this regard. I agree with the Deputy on that point. In general terms, however, there are advantages and disadvantages in all such activities. The move away from fossil fuels, which we must follow, allows us the opportunity to produce bio-fuels, which in turn allows farmers the opportunity in the future to grow crops they have not grown before. These crops can be grown in REPS areas and set aside and so on, providing an opportunity to earn an income. Hence, there is an opportunity for people to make an income and to halt the flight from the land to which the Deputy refers. In the future, and in keeping with what will happen everywhere else throughout the world, the number of people involved in agriculture here will probably diminish further as a result of the introduction of new methodology and much more streamlined food production.

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