Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Sargent. This is my first opportunity to applaud him on his initiatives and the promotion of farmers' markets. I wish to concentrate on three issues. The first is what the Minister of State has referred to as the local food concept, the second is regulation and the third is food labelling.

We have an excellent organic market in Athlone. People do not want to eat processed foods. I acknowledge the work of producers. I am aware some bakers start baking at 2 a.m. to have fresh produce available for the following day. A significant amount of work is involved over and above what most people realise. Many producers also travel significant distances. Some people come to Athlone from as far away as Ballinasloe in County Galway and from Longford.

I would die rather than buy a strawberry in the middle of November. We should not do that. One of the best aspects of a local market is that one can buy local produce seasonally. Perhaps the Minister of State can examine how to make people more aware of this issue.

Food packaging is also reduced when one shops at a local market. One can bring a shopping bag and not get all the glitzy plastic and cardboard packaging. This is an important consideration in terms of waste management. The Minister of State should encourage the use of less packaging.

Senator O'Sullivan referred to local abattoirs, as did other Senators. My local butcher still kills animals and traceability is not an issue as we know from where the produce is coming.

I tabled a motion at our local town council on the designation of an area for the farmers' market. However, the approach locally is haphazard. Is it possible for the Minister of State to regulate or legislate in this area? It may be helpful to meet with city and county managers and town clerks but more is required because the outcome is dependent on whether the individuals concerned have goodwill towards farmers' markets, which is not always the case. The provision of parking, lighting and water is important for farmers' markets. A French market comes to Athlone once a year, which is a great attraction also, and perhaps this is something on which we can expand.

The Minister of State said people should ask about food labelling but it is difficult for consumers to challenge producers. Legislation on a green label is necessary.