Joe Walsh (Cork South West, Fianna Fail)

I thank Senators for a constructive debate. I was able to give an undertaking to Senator McCarthy and Senator Quinn on grammatical matters.

The Irish food industry is exceptionally important and has developed positively over the past decade. The image of Ireland as a serious food producer is enhanced since the original Bord Bia was established. I am pleased at the way Bord Bia has established Ireland as a food island. When I travel around Europe and mention Ireland, Ireland the food island is immediately referred to, which is very positive. We export approximately €7 billion worth of food and beverage products each year. These make up almost 25% of our foreign export earnings because of the low import content. The regional importance of the food and horticultural industry impacts on all corners of the country.

I was happy to initiate the Bill in the Seanad. The Seanad is an appropriate place to initiate Bills and I try to do this as often as I can. It allows for constructive debate, including public debate outside the House. The Bill is then in a much better position and those promoting it have a broader outlook on it when it goes to the Dáil.