Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)

We have been very strong supporters of the Common Agricultural Policy. We want it strengthened and improved because we realise its value to Europe and for the Irish economy, farming and the agri-food industry. We shall continue to highlight the importance of the Common Agricultural Policy. Perhaps we should also reflect on the fact that Ireland's overseas development aid has increased dramatically in recent years. I believe we will contribute €914 million this year. Within the overseas development programme, it is very important that there is long-term development policy as regards agriculture — where the beneficiary countries are given the capacity, know-how and expertise to ensure they can grow basic foodstuffs for themselves. That is the long-term solution to many of the terrible problems that exist in developing countries.

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