Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

Last week, I called for a debate on the agriculture industry, particularly the tillage industry. In the immediate aftermath of the decision to close the Mallow sugar factory, the main focus was on the disappearance of the sugar production sector and the compensation package. The bigger picture of the tillage industry must be considered. As I said to the Minister for Agriculture and Food and the Taoiseach at a meeting last week, the future of the industry is at grave risk unless real leadership is shown in developing it. Alternative tillage crops such as those for biofuels must be considered. Sugar was a valuable crop both financially and in crop rotation practice. The majority of 4,000 sugar beet farmers will not be able to continue in the industry unless some aid is given to them.

Senator Coonan spoke about leadership. Agriculture needs leadership, not just from the farming organisations and Teagasc but also from politicians, more than ever before. In most debates in the House, the Government mantra is always "since 1997". However, it is never used in debates on agriculture. Since 1997, thousands of farmers have left the land. Hope in the future viability of agriculture has diminished. The debate is taking place at a time of the greatest uncertainty regarding the future viability of agriculture. Sadly, fewer young people see a future in agriculture. The political challenge for the Government is to provide leadership. We will take on board the published reports but we want action.

It is imperative that those who worked in the Mallow sugar plant will receive proper redundancy payments. It is also important that the bulk of the €145 million compensation package will go to the sugar beet producers and affected hauliers and contractors. The Minister claims advertisements will be placed in the national press advising people on how to claim compensation. I look forward to learning more about the scheme.

I welcome the introduction of the farm pollution control grants. From the point of view of planning permission, etc., a quick and easy system of application must be established. As the forms must be processed quickly, I ask the Minister to ensure sufficient staff numbers are in place for inspections. As the nitrates directive is frightening the farming community, hope must be offered through the farm pollution control grants.