Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will speak about the importance of family businesses in small towns. I welcome Pádraig Fahy and Úna Ní Bhroin, and their children Teegan and Tomás. They run a family farm and are neighbours of mine. They started Beechlawn Organic Farm more than 20 years ago. This is a small family farm. They came together and put a focus on organic, high-quality vegetables and fruit. The farm now sells to many retailers throughout the country. It has provided world-class food in our stores, such as SuperValu. Úna Ní Bhroin, who is inspirational to women entrepreneurs, works with her husband and family to develop and deliver this.

We need more supports for family businesses in rural areas. So much innovation is happening on the ground. The likes of Bord Bia and Teagasc are supporting good, high-quality, top-class food in rural areas. I wanted to acknowledge Pádraig, Úna and their children; I hope they will enjoy their day. They have been great friends and neighbours, and have been great in giving employment. At a very basic level, they give jobs to young people throughout our town. It gives a sense of community. There is something to be said for businesses that bring a sense of community, employ locally and invest back into our towns. We need to see more of that happening in our rural, regional towns as well as our city centres. I hope Pádraig, Úna and their children have a great day.