Apart from the quality of the meat would the Minister accept that pig-producing now is not an economic proposition, that many people are losing on pig rearing? Would the Minister not accept that such people are holding on in the hope that the position will improve? Has the Minister any statement to make here today on this question that prices will be increased for pig producers, and that that industry will again become viable and economic? Has the Minister any such statement to offer to pig producers?

No, I have no statement to make in that regard. I accept that costs have increased and, in so doing, that they have reduced the profit margins of producers. But I have no statement to make on that subject at this time.

Can the Minister hold out any hope for the future, or can he say or do anything that would restore confidence to our pig producers?

I think the Deputy will accept that it would be very difficult for me to make a statement to that effect at this time. We know that pig producing at any time is a difficult job because there are the peaks and valleys. We know that in years gone by the same problems have been experienced but the man who stayed in the business succeeded eventually. I think the same will happen in this situation.

I hope the Minister is right.