Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)

No, absolutely not. We have been testing, and paying for it, and we have been happy to do so because we need those tests. I am simply giving Members this information because I am being absolutely honest with them to ensure they are not under any illusion as to what is involved. It is well worth the money involved. Our laboratories are sophisticated in dealing with everything other than dioxins, but because dioxins require particular conditions for testing, a state-of-the-art facility is required for such testing, which we are currently accrediting. It is unfortunate it is not accredited at this point.

I agree with Senator Carty that the Taoiseach played a decisive role in dealing with this matter. I compliment him on that, given that his hands-on role was essential in bringing together the Departments of Health and Children, Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Finance, Foreign Affairs and Enterprise, Trade and Employment, which needed to be brought together to work closely with each other and they must continue to do so.

Senators Carty, O'Sullivan, Doherty and others mentioned that a producer who had argued that the products were Irish suddenly turned around and said they were not Irish to try to maintain an element of the market. I hope that kind of cynicism can be seen for what it is. It highlights the campaign for country of origin labelling which we need to succeed.

Senator Quinn cited important examples from his international experience. I agree with him that this is not just about the organic producer by a long shot. As was stated by Senators O'Donovan and others, the organic producer has had to jump over many more hurdles than the conventional producer. They are not allowed to use GM feed, regardless of the price, or many other products, and they have to pay to ensure the quality of their product. Because of the certification that applies to their products, they are able to get them back on the market because they have got guarantees that other producers cannot give. The majority of producers should follow hot on their heels in getting back into the market because they have nothing to fear and there is no question of contamination. That applies to artisan producers and the wider sector. The Minister, Deputy Smith, is not here because he is fully engaged in discussions to get that process under way.

Senators mentioned the need for a blitz in marketing, which I take on board. I heard Joe Duffy on his "Lifeline" programme say that he is prepared to eat bacon and to urge everybody to eat it. Perhaps he and a few others can get around the table and give a high profile example by highlighting what is safe, enjoyable and the best of Irish food.