John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

In view of the emphasis on food production at the G8 summit, I ask the Deputy Leader for a debate on genetic modification. Whatever opinions one has on genetic modification, there could surely be no basis for objecting to genetic modification of bio-fuel crops, which are used solely for energy purposes, including the provision of electricity. In light of the current world food crisis, in which Ireland, as a food producer, can play a major role, this debate should take place at the earliest opportunity.