Bobby Aylward (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

My question is similar to that of my colleagues, which I support. It relates to the setting up of the beef task force. We are all aware the price of beef is on the ground. There has been no upward movement since the summer, when the blockades took place, and there is still talk of getting only €3.45 per kilogram for prime beef from this country. The Minister has to use his influence to set up the task force. I listened to what he stated in response to the previous question. In fairness, he is trying to take steps in the background rather than dismissing the demonstrators, but unless there is transparency and accountability for everyone involved, such as Meat Industry Ireland, farmers, factories, processors and wholesalers, there will not be fair play for farmers. The primary producers do not receive fair play and no one can say they do. The Minister must use his good offices to ensure transparency in the system.

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