Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State and I are on a different planet. His statement this morning that the Minister has the confidence of the farming community is not correct. Why have there been two protests in this city this week by the farmers most affected, that is, those in the beef sector and hill farmers, the people most in need? At this point, we need leadership. I cannot understand why the Minister is not sitting down with Ms Michelle O'Neill. I took the trouble to meet Ms O'Neill only last week on this issue. Her team is willing to sort this issue regarding the labelling aspect but the initiative must come from here also. It must not be evident only in one area.

With regard to having a good working relationship, I have no doubt that there is commitment on the part of the farming sector to have a good working relationship but it must be reciprocated. Leadership has to come from the Government, including the Minister. Farmers are not happy. The beef producer, in particular, is not happy, nor are those who are trying to negotiate parts of pillar 2. This says a lot about the Minister's commitment at present. I am sorry to disagree with the Minister of State. I am certainly not happy with what is occurring.

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