James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)

The delays and the obstruction of grain and protein supplies have a detrimental effect on the entire livestock sector. The problem faced by our farmers are compounded by the labelling abuse which we know to our cost is permitted under the substantial transformation loopholes. In terms of meat we have a product from a source unknown to the consumer packaged here and labelled as Irish, for example beef from Brazil. The bottom line is that the only way to take action is through the courts to secure a prosecution. When will the first prosecution be made, which will successfully resolve this matter? The Minister of State is cowering and fearful in regard to issues raised. Such a weak approach is an insult to our farmers whose future in the agriculture industry is yet again on the line.

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