John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I cannot understand the reason for this amendment. Under the terms of section 18 (a)(3A), provision has been made for two persons. I note that the original amendment sought to reduce the number from two to one. I cannot understand that; one could not exclude the food industry. The horticulture industry is safeguarded under the terms of the Bill. The food industry is synonymous with horticulture and agriculture. They are the type of people we need. If one looks at the composition of the board of Bord Bia, some of the best people involved in the food industry are on the board and make a huge contribution. If we are serious about exporting our food, they are the type of people we need to have on the board.