Feargal Quinn (Independent)

As the issue I wish to raise is not as urgent as some of the others mentioned, I am not calling for a debate today. I refer to the looming trade war which is likely to affect the Irish and European economies in the coming year, during the Irish Presidency of the European Union. At a food conference which I attended last week, the main topic was a clash between the United States and Europe and the implications with regard to food which will clearly endanger the Irish economy. The main topic in that regard related to genetically modified foods, in respect of which there are totally different attitudes on the part of the Americans and the Europeans. If this is liable to come to a head during the Irish Presidency, we should be prepared for it.

My concern is that the Ministers concerned, the Minister for Agriculture and Food and the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, should be ready with a success story when that situation arises. Mr. Peter Sutherland managed to achieve success some years ago when he was involved in the World Trade Organisation negotiations at the time. I raise the matter because of its potentially serious consequences, the fact that it will occur within the next few months and will be an issue during the Irish Presidency.

The conference I attended last week was also attended by Bob Geldof. Senators would have been proud to hear an Irishman's attitude to the criticism of Europe and the way we treat food imports, in terms of our treatment of those who rely on exports from Africa to Europe, debarring them from entry to European markets because of our selfish attitude with regard to our economy and agriculture. While it is not a debate for today, it is an issue we should grasp during the coming months to ensure we are prepared for next year.