James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I, too, thank the Minister for coming into the House for the various Stages of the Bill. As we all know, local democracy is an essential element in any democratic state and the machinery by which important services are provided. Such legislation is important to ensure a healthier environment. As I said, I hope there are not too many obstacles put in the way of development in the agricultural community.

Farmers are not major polluters, despite what has been said. They are sometimes blamed unfairly. I am a farmer. Any farming activity I see shows respect for the rural community and the rural way of life. It is those involved in farming who are the greatest advocates of preserving rural life. I hope they will always be facilitated by Government. They are an important asset to the maintenance of rural life and long may it be so.

Unfortunately, matters progress. As we have become part of a greater European Union, it has become common to adopt many European practices. Perhaps that is not in our best interests. It is important that we maintain our heritage and culture and what is best of rural life. No matter where one travels in Europe or the world one meets people who have visited Ireland who like the Irish set-up, the way we manage our affairs, the rural environment, the by-roads, etc. There is something unique about our country which should be preserved. It is important that in any legislation coming before us we take genuine Irishness into account at all times.