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

I have previously commented on the toxic nature of the relationship between the processors and the primary producers. I had hoped that the establishment of the beef market task force, arising from all the events we can recall during the summer of discontent, would mark a new departure. That is because, in the long term, it is not sustainable to have an industry survive and prosper without good relationships between the primary producers and the processors. Key to that is the convening of the task force at the earliest possible date.

I acknowledge Deputy Penrose's expertise in the law. I had some engagement this morning with protestors who felt that I could unilaterally waive the injunctions. I know Deputy Penrose is well aware of how the law works and that those injunctions are not the property of this Department. We have no locus standiin respect of going to court to seek the lifting of those injunctions. I agree with Deputy Penrose, however, that the company involved should see the bigger picture. That will be a part of the resolution of the toxic nature of the relationship. We need to start building bridges, to reach out and move outside of our comfort zones to get these round-table talks up and running. All parties have co-operated bilaterally regarding the progress made. Let us take the next step and meet in plenary session at the earliest possible date. That is what I committed to trying to achieve.

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