Marts commercial outlook
Senator Murphy O'Mahony seeks a ministerial discussion on falling mart sales and the economic and social importance of marts in rural areas.
I want to discuss the commercial outlook for our marts around the country. Can we request that the Minister, Deputy Heydon, comes in to discuss this? Many marts are now reporting a loss in sales of up to 13%, which is huge. Anyone who is from a rural area knows the importance of the mart. It provides employment, which is obviously very important, but it is also a social outlet for many farmers. They may not meet anyone else for the rest of the week whereas they meet up there and discuss farming issues. They could also go for the spuds or a few pints or whatever. There is a big social aspect as well. I would like the Minister, Deputy Heydon, to come before the House to discuss his awareness of the issue and whether he has any plans to help them out.