Joe O'Reilly (Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister's intervention and record my appreciation of the fact that he has not adopted a defensive posture in respect of the very worthwhile and practical suggestions made. The objective of our amendments is to secure existing jobs in the processing and agriculture sectors and to create further employment. I am happy that this objective will be achieved, albeit via the use of a statutory instrument. In the context of protecting jobs in Wexford, it is important that we meet the deadline relating to the legislation. Senator Walsh has an immediate concern with regard to these jobs. However, the creation of new jobs or the retention of existing ones is a matter of interest to every Member of the Houses.

I am glad that the matter will, as the Minister indicated, be dealt with by way of statutory instrument and that our objective will be achieved. All we are doing is creating a level playing field for Irish producers. That is a reasonable position to want to advance and I am satisfied it will now happen. I share Senator Norris's pleasure about the fact that the Minister has taken our arguments on board. That is gratifying for us because we invested a great deal of effort in drafting and discussing the amendments. That is our job and is what we should be doing. It is good to know, however, that there has been a positive outcome to our work. In such circumstances, I will be happy to withdraw the amendment in my name.