Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I understand an independent appeals process is not available if a Minister decides not to pay compensation for any of the reasons outlined. However, a person may challenge a Minister's decision in the courts. The Department does not have an appeals process in place because it would be farcical to have the Department deal with an appeal against a decision made by the Minister. Two valuation systems and one arbitration system are in place for this reason. While the Minister can introduce guidelines, he or she cannot decide on a valuation of an animal. Such decisions must be taken by a valuer or arbitrator, although to be fair to Deputy Ó Cuív, that is not the point he is making.