Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will raise four items today. Today the IFA and farmers are coming together in the biggest dairy sector trade show and information day in Moorepark in Fermoy in County Cork. It is the biggest gathering of dairy farmers and the farming community. The big focus this year is the shortage of labour supply and professional skilled labour. It is a big challenge for the agricultural sector generally but particularly for the dairy sector and horticultural sector. It is one that needs to happen. We need to look at joined-up synergies between the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation. It is a key sector. We have had exemptions in the past where people from non-EEA countries are given permits to come into this country to work. We need to look at that. It raises another big issue, which is the number of people in direct provision who have clearly expressed a wish to work in the fruit sector and the agricultural sector. They are prevented from working in this country and many of them have been here for six, seven or eight years. I ask the Leader to bring it to the attention of the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

Today, in the AV room there was a presentation on cardiac services for the south east. Anyone who was present could not help but be moved by the highly charged emotion, frustration and disappointment of the people of that community who came here in large numbers today. It was interesting.Over 20 elected councillors from that region arrived here today as did their Deputies. I note a number of senior Fianna Fáil politicians were there today. Their interest in this story is telling. I issue a note of caution. Having spoken to a number of people who are key in holding that Government together, I believe this issue could have a huge impact on the cohesion and stability of the Government. They should not underestimate the seriousness of the issue and should do something about it.

I take the opportunity to congratulate Senator Richmond, Heidi Lougheed and officials from the secretariat who supported the Seanad Special Committee on the Withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union on their really good work and the comprehensive report launched today. It was meaningful and good for the Seanad. It was particularly good that the issues were dealt with comprehensively and put into this brochure. I recommend that people look at the report.

I congratulate Senator Buttimer, the Leader of the House, on the announcement of his engagement. I wish him every happiness. I know it is a very special time for him. He has a tremendous record of dealing with issues in this House. He is an exceptionally popular Member of this House and I know everyone will wish him the very best.