Will the Minister not agree that since the collapse of Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann in the production of vegetables there have been massive imports. Is it not time that the Department of Agriculture or ACOT made an effort to ensure that we will not import fresh vegetables such as turnips, carrots and cabbages, as has been the case? This is a ridiculous situation considering we have the climate and the soil conditions to grow those vegetables.

There is no denying that and all of us agree with what the Deputy has said. A number of voluntary groups or semi-State bodies are getting together in various areas to do something about the matter. On the outskirts of Waterford a scheme is getting off the ground, where groups have come together and are providing valuable employment. This trend may develop elsewhere and it is something we should encourage. There is a national awareness of the serious problem of horticultural imports, particularly of products that could be grown here.