I welcome the opportunity to speak on this motion. I wish to refute the comments made by Deputy Penrose. My audience is not in the Visitors Gallery; it is the small farmers in Donegal. Small farmers comprise the audience of most Members on this side of the House.

Coming from a small farming background, I am only too well aware of the difficulties being experienced by farmers nationally. The value of farming and farm produce to society cannot be overestimated. I was reared on a farm, which is now farmed by my brother, and I am aware that the vast majority of my supporters come from a small farming background in Donegal. My background keeps me very much in touch with the concerns of farmers, particularly at present. It is regrettable that farmers are experiencing difficulties in certain areas. Unfortunately, this is unavoidable given the global economic decline. Given this decline, we must recognise that limited resources are available.

It galled me recently to listen to some commentators on farming. There is negativity in the farming sector although unprecedented funding was invested of late in areas such as farm waste management. It galled me further to hear the point made in certain quarters to the effect that the Minister should extend the period in which slatted houses can be built. Coming from a civil engineering background, I do not understand this request at all.

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