Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

This is why I am somewhat concerned about the number of years it will take and where we are today.

Will the Leader accommodate a debate on the food supply chain? Irish producers and processors are, as we know, internationally renowned for the high quality of their produce. The gross output of the agrifood business is worth in excess of €25 billion. With the required supports, it will contribute significantly to Ireland's economic recovery, but there is a need to debate a number of related matters, such as CAP reform, viable family farm incomes, the farmers' share of retail prices, retail practices and the issues of food labelling and information to customers, particularly in respect of dietary and nutritional needs. Ireland's reputation for quality food production is a great strength of our agrifood sector, but we should support the sector and build our image as a sustainable food-producing island. Therefore, I would like us to put a focus on and stepped approach to a debate on the matter.