Michael Comiskey (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the IFA and the agricultural consultants. I agree with them and it is very important that the problem be resolved. It is a matter of weeks before applications must be submitted and we are all receiving many queries about it. Today's newspaper highlighted it further and we will receive more correspondence. We all must try to resolve it once and for all. The problem began when farmers were destocked in 1997 and 1998 and overgrazing had been allowed on many of the commonages. Now, farmers may be penalised if they have overgrown heather. In many cases, some overgrazing is happening. The balance must be got right. While I welcome many of the moves that have been made over recent months, particularly regarding GLAS, we still have to sort the problem out. It is important we hear everybody's story today and ensure we talk to the Minister and the Commission and get the problem sorted.