Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State. I am disappointed that the Minister, Deputy Denis Naughten, cannot be here. It is important to emphasise that European farmers, through the COPA, have rejected the proposals from the Commission. I know all about it as I live in Carlow town where the sugar factory was one of the biggest employers. It is crucial to revive the Irish sugar industry for the sake of rural farmers, industry and employment creation. I am not really happy with the answer given and hope the Minister can come and clarify it as I want to go back to the farmers and people I represent. The response seems to indicate a mixed reaction as the Minister and the officials are in negotiations. I ask him to make sure farmers who have rejected the proposals made are listened to. What they are looking for is the revival of the sugar factories.