Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)

I thank the Minister for his reply. Like most Deputies, I am concerned by the outrageous act of the Competition Authority last week when it did a dawn raid on the Irish Farm Centre with 15 officers and a search warrant, just because of one person's complaint. It was totally high-handed and that is the problem.

There is too much regulation and I am glad the Minister will meet his colleague, the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, Deputy Bruton. In 1996, producers were receiving 37% of the retail price, but this level reduced to 19% by 2011. I wish the Minister well in his portfolio and I hope he will tackle this issue.

Farmers are busy people and do not want to be out on the streets of Dublin, but that is where they are today in their many thousands. I met them earlier. They are disciplined, always well behaved and have served this country well. They do not need this kind of unfair treatment.

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