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

I thank the witnesses for the presentation. From the presentation, it appears there is a low take-up on the suckler side as distinct from the dairy side. I can understand why. Deputy Ó Cuív has outlined many of the concerns of farmers, particularly the smaller, more marginal farmers. There are 198,000 cattle but 50% of herds have ten animals or fewer. Obviously, there is a cost factor. Consider also the perception that exists.

The federation states artificial insemination is probably the best approach to reach the required star rating. That being the case, there is obviously the associated cost. Mr. Coughlan said, however, there are stock bulls in each breed that can deliver four-star or five-star replacements. I take it they would be from four-star or five-star mothers.

Perhaps my next point has been missed by many. The witnesses said that once an animal has been genotyped, it will be eligible from a scheme perspective, even if it subsequently drops to a three-star rating. Will the witnesses elaborate on that? There is concern that if an animal drops below the intended four-star or five-star rating, the penalties will be quite severe. How is the six-year timeline factored in?