The Taoiseach shares my regret at the decision by An Taisce to object to and appeal the planning permission for a continental cheese factory at Belview, near Waterford, a move that is damaging the economy of the south east.

In An Taisce's observations, it does not query the water treatment on site but, rather, it appears to be signalling its ideological resistance to any intensification of the dairy sector in Ireland. My colleagues in the Regional Group and I have tabled amendments to the climate Bill, first to separate biogenic methane from the overall greenhouse gas calculation and second to require that future sectoral reductions be decided by the whole of the Dáil, not just the line Minister. Our agricultural sector cannot be a soft target in terms of sectoral greenhouse gas reductions in future climate policy. Will the Government give security in regard to future sectoral caps?

The climate change Bill is comprehensive legislation that is groundbreaking and a landmark in terms of this country turning a corner in meeting its climate change needs and agenda. It aligns with the targets also being set in Europe. It is very important legislation that creates a framework for further action. It can create opportunity as well in terms of jobs in the new green economy and in other areas in terms of adding value to production on the land and more efficient farming. It has to be said that Irish farming, both dairy and beef, is one of the most efficient in Europe and, indeed, across the globe.