Shane Ross (Independent)

That is one of the most outrageous performances I have ever come across on the Adjournment. I think the Minister does not understand the protocol here. Ministers usually read a speech that is written before they hear a Senator's question and then sit down. I am being facetious. I am grateful to the Minister for the fact that he actually listened to what I had to say and responded to it, which is unique in this House. It sets a precedent that should be followed by other Ministers. Whether we agree or disagree, it is extremely helpful to have a Minister who take one's points and responds to them individually. The normal procedure in this House is that a Minister — sometimes the wrong Minister — reads a script and then disappears. I am grateful that he took my contribution seriously and addressed it point by point.

The Minister stated that seaweed is not well developed. Is it Government policy to depend on the leadership of Europe in this regard? Will the Government introduce initiatives in this area, since we are well placed to exploit it ourselves?