I second the amendment proposed by Senator Marie Mooney and agree with her sentiments about the yellow pack salaries being paid to new teachers, gardaí and nurses.

I appreciate that time is short in terms of the end of the current Administration, but I call for a debate on agriculture as soon as possible within the next fortnight. As Members are aware, a variety of issues face farming families throughout the country and today one of the farming organisations is lobbying in the vicinity of the House. There is an issue, in particular, about anti-competitive practices, of which those living in Border counties are particularly aware. As a result of these practices, the export of cattle to Northern Ireland and elsewhere in the United Kingdom is impeded. Between currency exchange rates and the lower prices factories are prepared to pay here, the price of cattle north of the Border is 82 cent more per kilo than here. We are exporting weanlings to Italy, Tunisia and other countries, but we cannot sell our animals just a couple of miles across the Border where there are buyers and there is demand and where the benefit would be a greater yield and a return to farm families throughout the country. This issue needs to be examined as it concverns an anti-competitive practice.

Other issues of concern include the reduced competition among processors. With respect to all those involved in processing, it seems that the well known Slaney and Irish Country Meats plant at Camolin is set to merge with one of the larger players. I am not sure this best serves the industry as a whole, processors or farm families throughout the country. It would be useful to consider these issues in advance of the general election. Clearly, agricultural issues will be matters of debate for those seeking to be elected to the Dáil as farmers are putting them on the agenda. We could assist that process and the pursuit of a better regime for farmers, processors and consumers by debating them in this House.

I express my condolences to the O'Connor family following the sad passing of Christy O'Connor Jnr. while on a family holiday in Tenerife recently. I had the pleasure of being within 50 yards of him when he played that famous shot at the Belfry, which is recognised as one of the best golf shots ever played on any golf course. Subsequently, I met his opponent, Fred Couples, who was No. 1 in the world at the time. The Cathaoirleach is a golfer himself.

He is good with a two iron.

Does Senator Terry Brennan have a question for the Leader?

Fred Couples acknowledged to me that it was the best shot under extreme pressure he had ever seen.

Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?

I just wish to acknowledge the contribution made by Christy O'Connor Jnr. and express my condolences to his immediate family.