Joe O'Toole (Independent)

While it was not my intention to raise the same issue as Senator Brian Hayes, I support his comments. When I raised this issue last year I investigated the price of lamb in four different parts of France and contacted the president of the IFA to ask why Irish lamb is cheaper in all parts of France than in supermarkets here. I also discussed the matter with a Seanad colleague who has some knowledge in these matters but is not present this morning. I have failed so far to get an answer to my question as to why Irish lamb can be sold more cheaply in France than Ireland. Something significant is wrong and Senator Brian Hayes has raised an issue of merit. I pleaded with the IFA to get involved because this is the type of issue which would bind people together in support of farming and agriculture.

On a related issue, I have been waiting and watching for the publication of the report of the consumer strategy group which I understand was completed two months ago. I may be wrong but it does not appear to have been published, unless it was launched quietly in the past fortnight. I understand the report proposes some degree of consumer involvement in planning, which is a frightening prospect. I am told it also proposes the establishment of a super-regulator to regulate the regulators and the removal of the retail prices order, the issue which receives most publicity. In addition, it appears the report also proposes significant changes in the area of consumer protection and the offices dealing with it. These issues should be discussed along with the matter raised by Senator Brian Hayes as they are all interlinked. We need some answers.

The Minister for Agriculture and Food or the appropriate Minister should answer two simple questions. Why is Irish meat sold more cheaply in France than in Ireland and why are reductions in the wholesale price of meat never passed on to the consumer? Those at both ends, the farm gate and the consumer, lose out as a result, which is not acceptable. I fully support Senator Hayes's comments on the issue.