Seanad debates

Thursday, 17 May 2012

11:00 am

Photo of Susan O'KeeffeSusan O'Keeffe (Labour)

I wish to be associated with the remarks made by various Senators about the United Nations day which reminds us all about the bullying that persists across this country and across the world against people who are homosexual. I understand that the Ministers, Deputy Quinn and Deputy Fitzgerald, are hosting a forum today on that matter and this is to be welcomed.

I ask the Deputy Leader if the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Deputy Coveney, could come to the House to discuss the specific issue of artisan food and the slow food movement. I live in Sligo and the So Sligo food festival is being held this weekend. The festival is in its third year and it is celebrating local food and the advantages of having local food in local restaurants. We know from anecdotal evidence and from reports that the food industry, and this aspect of the industry, rather than the great international businesses, is vital for tourism and cultural heritage. Many counties have great food festivals, for instance, the food festival in Donegal this weekend, and festivals in counties Waterford and Kerry. Such festivals should be encouraged in all parts of the country.

I would like to have this debate with the Minister so that his Department could join with the Department responsible for tourism to introduce a renewed policy. It has the potential to create jobs. There is much expertise, particularly among older people and it would be a way of inviting them to become involved and to be of assistance in their communities and in job creation.

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