Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am replying to this debate on behalf of the Minister, Deputy Coveney, who unfortunately is unable to be present. I assure Deputies that he will read the blacks in order to familiarise himself with the contributions of Government and Opposition Deputies.

This debate has given rise to much discussion in respect of the challenges currently faced by the beef sector. The Minister of State, Deputy Hayes, clearly acknowledged the drop in prices this year as compared with the record high prices achieved this time last year. Those on the opposite side of the House stated that we do not recognise the existence of a problem. We do recognise that there is a problem and we will deal with it. Prices this year have been more favourable than those achieved in most other years and they remain above the EU average. It would neither be appropriate nor possible for any Minister to intervene in respect of price. As Deputy Ó Cuív is well aware, to do so would be illegal. The Opposition seems to be suggesting that there is some political magic bullet by means of which the current beef price issue can be resolved. When he is summing up, I would like Deputy Ó Cuív to supply his proposals as to how this crisis might be resolved.

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