John Carty (Fianna Fail)

I, too, welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Sargent. As I have not seen him in the House since his appointment I congratulate him and wish him well in his tenure of office.

The Government is committed to supporting local and regional food. The Department's Agri Vision 2015 action plan and Towards 2016 include measure in this regard. Bord Bia, which operates under the aegis of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, has worked closely with other State and local agencies to exploit the growing opportunities for markets, providing a guide to farmers' markets, advice and mentoring assistance. A comprehensive guide to selling through farmers' markets, farm shops and box schemes will be launched this month to assist local producers wishing to sell their produce in their local area.

It is crucial to raise awareness of the local concept. In that regard, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in co-operation with Bord Bia, organised a series of regional food fora which took place over an 18-month period from late 2005 to early 2007. These events brought together regional, speciality and artisan producers along with relevant State agencies. The aim was to increase awareness of emerging market opportunities and encourage best practice in developing regional and local excellence in food. It also provided a forum for these producers to raise issues of particular concern.

Many Senators have alluded to the importance of local produce. We are very lucky in this country that we have land available to us. Perhaps people can be encouraged to make an effort to grow their own produce in their back gardens. I accept we are not all expert gardeners like the Minister of State.