Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are trying to avoid having different rules apply to the same crop. The Deputy should bear this in mind given what he said about sustainability.

We are a net importer of protein crops and beans are one of the areas in which we can cultivate a protein crop as an import substitute. Bear in mind that we import very substantial amounts because we are a net importer, particularly for the ruminant feed business. What this proposal would result in is an undermining of the commercial viability of our own protein crops and a situation whereby two sets of regulations would apply, one for ecologically-focused areas and a different set for the non-ecologically-focused area. It is nonsensical. For that reason, it has been opposed by not just Ireland but by 18 other member states. There is a certain logic to it.

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