Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I was not present for the earlier debate on the difficulties that this move has caused for people who were involved in transactions. I am also well aware of the reaction from owners and those who were involved in seeking to purchase more agricultural land. At different stages in the aftermath of dealing with this matter, I have put in place measures to try to deal with some of these issues. I did so in respect of consanguinity. I know that has not met every need there is, but I did put the measure in place to try to deal with the issue in ensuring that farm purchases could stay within the family to facilitate the intergenerational transfer of land.

The next matter that was then raised with me were issues that were occurring for transactions that were mid-flow. The Revenue Commissioners and I have been seeking to respond to the issue. This has led to the different options emerging. As Deputy Burke and others are raising a matter with the second option, I will raise the issue again with the Revenue Commissioners. I will see whether there is a way of engaging with the authority that would deal with it. I am very reluctant, and I do not know if it is technically possible, to go down the path of further financial resolutions in respect of the budget because of where we are with the Finance Bill, and it may not be possible to do so, but I will continue to look at any measure I can to deal with families who have been affected by this policy move. I will respond well before we get to Report Stage to the matter that Deputy Burke has now raised.