Noel Coonan (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 6:

In page 9, paragraph (d), line 16, to delete "the food industry or".

The argument here is that while the food industry is provided for in Bord Bia, which we welcome, the concern is that the horticulture industry is not adequately provided for in the Bill. The reason for tabling the amendment is to ensure that at least two members are specifically from the horticultural sector. From speaking to members of the horticulture industry, I have serious concerns. They are concerned they will not be adequately represented on the new board. It is a niche industry providing a particular type of production in horticulture which has made enormous strides in recent years and is worth considerable money to the economy. We must ensure the industry is adequately protected. I am concerned that this is not happening. We have to be serious about what is happening. Following various items of legislation enacted in the farming area, thousands of farmers are being driven off the land. I have no doubt that unless a particular effort is made to protect the horticultural sector, the same will happen and it will be expedited under this Bill.

The unwritten policy in Europe is to get rid of as many producers as possible, particularly the smaller variety, and to concentrate them into larger producers who will be easier to look after. It is of the utmost importance that we have a voice that will speak out strongly and clearly for the horticultural sector on the new board proposed by the Minister. I am concerned that this is not adequately provided for under the Bill.