Mark Duffy (Fine Gael)

I apologise for any confusion earlier. Before we finish for the summer, I thank the Cathaoirleach, all of the team and the Leader for his welcome, help and support to the new Senators. I thank Martin Groves for his professionalism and diligence in the short term I worked with him in the Oireachtas. Indeed, I also thank Bridget Doody, Clerk Assistant of the Seanad.

I also support the words of support by Senators Cummins and Ní Chuilinn on the Oireachtas broadcast staff who will be, essentially, on the dole from next week. I lend my voice of support to them.

Senator P.J. Murphy, my colleague in County Galway, raised the upcoming proposals and changes to veterinary prescriptions for farming. From discussions I have had with the farming community in County Mayo, there are serious concerns about how they threaten to monopolise the market. We need to have a discussion before these changes are brought into effect because it could have serious ramifications and increases in cost for farmers. I support Senator Murphy on it. I would welcome a discussion before any changes are made.