Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I concur with the Chairman in thanking the Macra delegation for a comprehensive presentation to us here today covering the issues.

Mr. Finan might elaborate on the issue of the shortage of education and training places at present, his perception of that and what needs to be done to address it. Mr. Finan referred to it in his presentation but I ask him to go into it in more detail.

An issue Mr. Finan did not cover, which is not specifically related to the upcoming budget but on which, since he is here before the committee today, I would like to get his perspective is the issue of the older young farmers. It is one of the issues most prevalent among young farmers coming to me, and particularly acute for those who are affected. It has meant that many genuinely young farmers who have been farming for more than five years have been discouraged from expanding their farming enterprises. I note it is a difficulty at European level but I would like to get Mr. Finan's perspective on it because it is a particularly important issue for those affected.

As for Mr. Finan's suggestion on increasing the stamp duty relief to those aged between 35 and 40 years who can avail of it, he might comment on whether that would lead to delayed transfer.