Ivor Callely (Independent)

Yesterday I asked the Leader whether he could indicate to me what progress he had made with the other group leaders about structured debate on topical issues. One of those issues for debate is our exports. I congratulate all involved in this turbulent period for the tremendous improvement being made in the export industry.

I have also called for a debate on food labelling. It is now even more important to have the appropriate beneficial aspects of food intake properly labelled. We will see great progress made in this area in the years ahead due to consumer demand and we should take the opportunity to lead on it in this House.

I congratulate Bord Bia and those Irish food producers that have done so well in what they have achieved during this turbulent economic period. It goes to show that the "can do" attitude of the Irish people means we are able to meet the challenges at this testing time. I urge the Leader to have a debate to ensure all the appropriate supports are in place for all the tremendous food producers.