Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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Question 502: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food her views on the absence of an organisation (details supplied) from partnership talks; her plans to ensure that the group return to the talks; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6756/06]

Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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Question 503: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food her views on the absence of an organisation from partnership talks; her plans to ensure that the group return to the talks; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6757/06]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 502 and 503 together.

I very much regret the decision of the two farmers' organisations mentioned to suspend their involvement in the partnership talks. They retain the option of rejoining the discussions, and I would urge them to do so, but this is a matter on which they must decide.

The Government believes that the farming pillar has a significant and useful part to play in the partnership process. In addition, it is very desirable that the importance of the agrifood sector is reflected in national agreements, as it has been over the last 19 years. My Department will, therefore, remain fully involved in the talks with the remaining farmer organisation and will stand ready to engage with others should they choose to rejoin the process.