Garret Ahearn (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This week, in my native county of Tipperary and around the country, tillage farmers have started the harvest season. Anyone who comes from a farming family will know how exciting this time of year, when harvest starts, is. I read during the week that Bord Bia cannot insist on Irish grain being used in the grass-fed beef standard. That is really disappointing. We are promoting our beef products around the world as the best one can possibly get. Our grain can be used by farmers wishing to meet the grass-fed standard and we should be encouraging that. This same requirement is in place in the lamb, beef and dairy sectors. I see no reason why it cannot be introduced with regard to grain.

If possible, I would like the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to come before the House. I know he only took up that brief this week but this is a very important time for the agriculture industry. The next six months are crucial in light of Covid-19, Brexit, and the possible trade deal. It is important that the new Minister, who I wish well in his portfolio, come in to outline his vision for the agriculture industry for the coming years.