Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

The committee heard the views of many groups, in particular the north Dublin growers and the Meath growers who shared their experience. Now we see the huge decline in growers. A few hundred of the 700 or so who were in business have gone out of business since then. Senator Hanafin pointed out that the farmers only get 20% of the price for which their potatoes are selling in the supermarkets and stores. This is an issue that should be revisited by the Joint Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

Senator McFadden expressed serious concerns about the announcement by Arnotts during the week. I understand 1,200 jobs will be provided in three years. A significant amount of money, €1 billion, is being spent on the project. I remind the Senator that 80% of businesses that were in O'Connell Street 30 years ago are no longer there as a result of the changing face of Ireland.

Senator Mullen expressed his concern about the stolen data of the Irish Blood Transfusion Service and I will pass on his concerns to the Minister. I heard the programme on radio this morning. It is alarming that the data of 171,000 people might be in the hands of some thief. Perhaps we could bring the matter to the Minister's attention when she is in the house next week to discuss the HSE and perhaps we will get an update on the position then.