Ollie Crowe (Fianna Fail)
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I will be brief. I have just two questions as I am conscious Deputy Cahill, as Chair of the agriculture committee, wants to come in.

A number of companies might find this model more suitable but will probably need to be informed and educated about the possibilities and advantages of the transition, when it comes about. What are our guests' views on how we should address this?

The general scheme proposes audit exemptions for smaller co-ops. Generally speaking, I have no issue with reducing the legislative burden for smaller co-operatives, or indeed companies. However, given the unique nature of co-ops, is there any risk removing the audit requirement may make members who are less involved in the finance side and the books of the co-op vulnerable to being exploited to those members who are more involved in that side?

I would like brief answers to those brief questions and then Deputy Cahill will come in. I thank the Acting Chair for his co-operation.