Arthur Spring (Kerry North-West Limerick, Labour)

It is a good day when the non-government or Opposition benches produce a motion with which we can all agree. It is living proof that the cowboy and farmer can be friends. It is vital to remain focused on what we can do, namely, our core competencies of tourism, energy, agri-business and micro-enterprise. We must also ensure we focus both on the economy and society. We have an opportunity to examine how people living along the western seaboard can enjoy sustainable livelihoods. There are enormous opportunities and our agencies need to focus on them. We also need to look at branding and delivering for small producers in a sustainable manner, not only through the normal forms of agriculture but also through opportunities that arise from organic growth.

It is a good day when we can look with 20-20 vision and say we have something to be proud of and that jobs will be created as a result. We must put all our ideas and enthusiasm towards that. It is something I am happy about.

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