Niall Collins (Limerick West, Fianna Fail)

I second the Government's amendment to the motion as set out by the Minister. I welcome the opportunity to partake in the debate as a Deputy representing a rural constituency, along with my colleague on the Fine Gael side, Deputy Dan Neville.

I acknowledge the considerable contribution to the economy made by the 132,000 farm families, on an ongoing basis, and also that of the many thousands of other people who derive their livelihood indirectly from the agri-sector. Last week we spoke about small and medium enterprises and in that vein we emphasised the role of banking. Banking has significant input into farming because farm families run businesses. I reiterate the call I made last week to the banking sector to adopt a more flexible approach to farm enterprises. I welcome the announcement by Bank of Ireland of a €250 million fund and the further announcement by Royal Bank of Scotland that it will allocate €1 billion to make credit available. This credit must be extended to the farm sector. I call again on the banks to produce a strategy statement to deal with the agricultural sector.

Recently I met a number of representatives from the IFA and the ICMSA as many other Deputies must do. I asked them how, apart from all the other issues, we can help them on a day to day basis. A common theme that emerged concerned how farmers can realise their assets through the sale of sites. All Deputies from different parties can bring this to fruition. Local authorities have tended to limit the number of sites being sold and put on the open market, particularly those owned by farmers. Dealing with this issue would allow farm families to realise their assets and would also provide the kick-start to the construction sector that is so badly needed.

I refer, in particular, to the sterilisation of land which planning authorities are inflicting on many farm families. Sustainable rural house guidelines refer to this.

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