Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I know. I am asking the Minister to consider supporting the amendment, which would include the plan. It is at the heart of this issue. The Minister talks about striking a balance. I ask her to ensure that we are not striking a blow in respect of the pollinators of Ireland, our bees and birds and the reproduction of natural life. Without going into detail, and all of us could dwell on this, we know that the red berries are a key source of food in August. They need to be available for bees.We have heard that is what provides the protein, which allows bees to build up their bodies in order that they can survive the winter at a time of significant attrition. It is an extraordinarily reasonable amendment, which is weaker than I would like. It only asks for the Minister to confirm that she will have regard to the pollinator plan, that it will not be subsumed to other commercial interests and that, for example, it will be placed on the agenda for consideration. It is a mild amendment, which I will have to press. I regret that she is unable to take it on board.