Teagasc is a Government agency which provides information and education and it will be involved in offering advice and help to farmers in relation to the provisions of the Bill. It would not be appropriate to legislate for that because Teagasc is obliged, under the various Acts which relate to it, to offer assistance and advice to farmers in any event.
I assure the House that together with offering advice and assistance with regard to the Bill, a major, well advertised education campaign will be launched. Groups of farmers will be able to attend meetings and farmers will be able to receive advice on an individual basis. This is a major and detailed item of legislation.
I take Senator Quinn's point on DNA. I am well acquainted with Dr. Paddy Cunningham and well aware of the work he is carrying out in Trinity College. That work will have far-reaching consequences because it will offer the ultimate in traceability and if the cost is reasonable, the methods will be widely used. With Teagasc, the Department will conduct major information campaigns directed specifically at farmers before the national beef assurance scheme is implemented.
It was my understanding that the debate would conclude before 4.30 p.m. I have given assurances that the Bill will be well aired during the summer and that there will be sufficient time to consider amendments on Report Stage. It would help if the amendments tabled were moved.
