Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

On the last point, I will talk to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine about the strategic plan. The Deputy is right about the need to do everything we possibly can to focus on what works and on food security in particular, which will remain a big challenge globally. That must be reconciled with the climate issues. Food security is still important and Ireland is probably one of the most carbon efficient production systems in Europe, both in dairy and beef. That should not be forgotten.

On Deputy Cian O’Callaghan’s point, we will examine former Senator Colette Kelleher’s legislation. However, we have a different legal system from those in other countries. If the Garda is in possession of knowledge or material that may not add up to a prosecution or that it has not passed to the DPP then that could be problematic in terms of the rights of the individual. The issue is not that simple but it merits close examination because we have to learn from experience as the Deputy has outlined.

On Deputy Paul Murphy's points, good terms and conditions are the most sustainable way to build and grow business and to build a loyal workforce that is productive. That goes without saying. There are labour relations and industrial relations processes that can facilitate the negotiation of good pay and conditions. Some employers are better than others, and that is particularly true in the retail sector. I have spoken to some traders and companies in the retail sector and they have been complimentary of the extraordinary efforts their workers have made over the last two years in particular.

Deputy Boyd Barrett raised the issue of ventilation. The Minister for Education has taken on board the expert advice she has received. Within the Common Agricultural Policyital allocations to schools there is the facility to purchase HEPA filters if they are needed in certain settings. There is also a technical team in the Department that will work with schools in certain situations where schools may need more than just HEPA filters.

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