Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I accept the Minister is trying to do his best in a difficult situation. The interruption of the beef task force meeting on 14 October has not helped. I did not support the actions taken then by certain individuals. Those actions were not helpful because the task force is critical. Many farmers in Longford, Westmeath, Offaly and adjacent parts have contacted me. They see it as absolutely crucial that the beef task force would deal with the central issue at stake, as well as ancillary issues. I urge the Minister to make every effort in addressing this situation, notwithstanding the intransigence of MII and everybody it represents.

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