Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

The Minister has taken responsibility for agriculture in the absence of any Minister. He took advantage of the former Minister for Agriculture and Food, Deputy Walsh, who was lackadaisical in his efforts to preserve farming communities. Some Senators behind me would have praised the former Minister for his stance on this issue. I suggest Senator Ross put on his wellies and visit some of the farmers in his county. He might then see what his suggestions would mean in reality. I ask that the Minister eliminate, not postpone, the draconian measures he has included without thinking.