Pat O'Neill (Fine Gael)
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I thank the officials. Deputy Fitzmaurice has dealt with all of the issues they raised. In their submission to the committee they stated that the Organic Farmers Representative Body is an umbrella organisation. They have dealt with the four issues it raised that were of concern to it. I would not dismiss its concerns and the issues it raised. The officials have dealt with the new organic scheme, increased payments and double funding.

The most prominent issue is the delay in payments. I note in the submission it was stated that an industrial dispute in the office last year held up payments. I hope that has now been settled and that people are paid before Christmas to this year. Bodies that rate organic farmers are independent and the Department cannot interfere with them.

Could I have a breakdown on the 1,600 farmers the officials have said will be in organic schemes within the next year? What is the breakdown between livestock - including sheep, beef and dairy - poultry, tillage and vegetable production, in terms of the farms that will participate? Are many farms mixed or specialised?