John Whelan (Labour)

I too had the pleasure of attending the IFA showcase of Irish Food and the expo of Irish Food. I am surprised that there are so many here this morning, it was so appealing. The Taoiseach made an excellent speech at the showcase, he reminded us of the critical importance of the agri-sector and of artisan and small producers to the economic recovery. At that event, Ms Darina Allen, who is from Cullahill, County Laois, made the point that everyone, particularly those of us in Leinster House, should try to support Irish producers and their produce at every opportunity. I was also glad to see two Laois artisan producers, G's Gourmet Jams from Ballinakill and Rossmore Farmhouse Ice Cream from Rathdowney being part of the showcase.