Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank Professor Renwick and Mr. Bryan for their presentations. The decline in the suckler cow as a consequence of the terrible winter, spring and early summer we had is quite alarming. There needs to be an incentive to get people back into that sector in the interests of developing the industry. If a sizeable number of people exit the suckler cow business, it will have dire consequences. A welfare scheme is of enormous importance and I encourage the Government to go down that road. Mr. Bryan mentioned €100 a head for that scheme, which would be welcome. What will be the consequences for meeting the 2020 target if such a scheme is not introduced?

I am very concerned about the effect on the industry of the beef barons and cartels that exist. I have been advised that there is almost €300 of a difference between an animal being killed in the UK versus here. What can be done to tackle that problem? It does not make sense that in some instances the same company is operating in both jurisdictions and effectively discriminating against the Irish producer in favour of the overseas producer.

We got clarification today on a question asked last week on Pillar 1, Pillar 2 and co-funding. We have been told today that member states may transfer up to 15% of funds from Pillar 1 to Pillar 2 and will not be subject to co-financing. The consequences of that can be quite startling. I ask for the witnesses views on that. We are also advised that any funds can also be transferred from Pillar 2 back to Pillar 1. What effect will that have?