Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)

Greencore held the quota share. I am sure no one is going to seriously suggest that it was not in possession of up-to-date information in respect of its activities. The situation was changing because the protected price would no longer be available as a result of the WTO's ruling. I reiterate that the then Minister and her officials had made available the most up-to-date statistics and data relating to the industry in this country before the relevant Commissioner, the then Presidency and the relevant Commission officials at every opportunity.

Deputy Sherlock inquired with regard to the special share. I must inform him that it is not a golden share. That phraseology is incorrect - it is a special share.

Deputy Doyle inquired about the powers conferred on the then Minister at the time. What was agreed did not confer on her the power to stop Greencore renouncing its quota and exiting the industry.

See this speech in context