Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)

The Bill states clearly that "the Department may set off any arrears of payments outstanding in respect of the land purchase annuity". In other words, any payment being made through the Department of Agriculture and Food could be taken. Section 6 expands on this aspect of the matter. It is not a partial payment or an instalment payment that will be taken. Any payment could be taken. A farmer's entire single farm payment, REPS payment or any other payment could be absorbed by the Department to deal with the arrears.

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