I also express my sincere sympathy to Treasa and the Carroll family on the death of Seamus. He was a thorough gentleman who helped each and every one of us here with a smile on his face every day that he was here. I have been asked by several farmers in County Kerry, and indeed around the country, to ensure that ample ferries are made available to transport live cattle to mainland Europe. We are an island country surrounded by water. Brittany Ferries gave up in the past few weeks. Irish Ferries continues to do its level best at all times for animal exports. However, from 1 January next, the seasonal increase will occur. I ask the Taoiseach to ensure we have adequate ferries to take our calves and cattle to mainland Europe. It is vital and imperative for farmers. It is a real concern of theirs to ensure we have adequate ferries to transport our cattle to mainland Europe to the Single Market. I ask the Taoiseach to make sure of that from 1 January.

Obviously, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine is very aware of the situation with regard to ferries and the capacity to transport live cattle. Other companies are also examining this and we hope that a solution to it will be in place by 1 January. I know the Minister is very concerned and is acting on it.