Everyone is aware of the situation regarding our poultry industry. An epidemic of bird flu has swept across Europe. Since December, six cases have been reported in Ireland and one particular issue really comes to mind. On 24 December an order was made to the effect that all commercial birds should be kept indoors. The purpose was to protect them from this situation.

The difficulty is that, under Irish and European legislation, the status of our poultry or commercial birds may be affected after 90 days. Much of our poultry is considered to be either organic or free range. However, if birds are kept indoors for more than 90 days, they lose that status. Many people in the poultry industry are concerned that they will lose that status.

That question is not relevant to the Order of Business.

It relates to legislation, because legislation may have to be changed to protect people in the poultry industry.

It seems to me you should table a question to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

He was here until 20 minutes ago. Had he stayed, I am sure he would have stood up and answered it.

Is there legislation promised?

The suggestion I am making is that the legislation in place at present is not adequate to deal with this situation. There is a crisis in the industry and something will have to be done in order to ensure that people in the poultry industry will be protected. The only way that can be done is for the legislation to be changed.

The Minister is attending a Brexit meeting in respect of the agricultural sector. I will bring Deputy Kenny's comments in respect of the existing legislation and whether it is necessary to consider amending it to the Minister's attention.