Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I support the call of my colleagues, some of whom are on the other side of the House, for a full debate next week on agriculture. There has been an indication that some time will be allowed but a substantial time will be necessary. We are talking about the future of Irish agriculture. As the Cathaoirleach knows, one of the big issues is that young people are drifting away from the land in enormous numbers. We must be careful in debating these issues that we do not continue to paint a bleak picture of a career that nobody wants to enter. We must debate the issue in a careful, positive fashion. It is not simply about the present CAP reform measures but the very future of agriculture. There are enormous challenges and much that can be criticised in relation to yesterday's deal, but we must strike a positive note as far as we can and send a message from this House that young people can have a future on the land if proper policies are put in place.