Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)

I thank the Senator again. On his last point, I take my responsibility to both Houses very importantly. I always try to answer the Commencement matters or Topical Issue matters that are put to me or my colleagues within the Department. It is important and I thank the Senator for acknowledging that.

This is novel legislation that would place an onus on business to supply financial data that goes beyond that which is required across the EU. It is not an insignificant ask. I want to ensure that any proposed additional powers are subject to an appropriative legislative process and do not give rise to any unintended consequences. It is our responsibility in both Houses to make sure that we look out for unintended consequences and that when we are trying to fix one problem, we do not create another. We do not want to put an extra burden on business but the Agri-Food Regulator was set up for an important reason. There was a need for it. I wish to repeat that I am fully committed to ensuring the regulator is equipped with the necessary powers to fulfil its statutory function, subject to the legislative and consultative processes. I cannot be any clearer on that. I hope to see clear progress in the near future. As I previously mentioned, this was a commitment in the programme for Government so it should not be a surprise to anybody.