Michael McNamara (Clare, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I support the amendments. Previous speakers have referred to groups that perform an important function locally. I would like to cite an example, which is both national and local. The Irish Seed Savers Association is based in my home town, Scarriff, County Clare. The organisation is well known throughout the country and, in the past, it has received funding occasionally from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Its members collect increasingly rare seed varieties, which are very much part of our national and our natural heritage, particularly in an age of increasing commercialisation in the agriculture sector.

Intensification is also increasing and proposals have been made to use genetically modified products and seeds in Ireland. The varieties of apple and grain grown here have also narrowed. In that context, Irish Seed Savers performs an important function. For example, it has planted 140 native varieties of apples to date. While this may not be important to the Minister, it is of note to apple lovers.

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