Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

It is very simplistic of the Deputy to ask this question. I will only agree that we have had good discussions on this matter in the House. Every Member, whether involved in agriculture or otherwise, believes the outcome of the WTO negotiations is important. I believe a balance is the most important outcome that I must attain for Irish agriculture and the agrifood sector.

We are not yet at a position where a final decision must be made. There are ongoing discussions in the Commission and among member states. I will raise this matter once again on Monday when attending the EU Council meeting. I will also have further discussions with the Commission and like-minded Ministers. We are in a process and we are not at the stage of making a final decision.

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