Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

It is important to reiterate that the Government made a decision on the basis of an independent report by Indecon, which took into consideration all aspects of the EU regime. On the basis of that independent expert appointed by the Government, it was decided to reserve 32.38%, which was €47.1 million, for growers and contractors. This sum was made up of €40 million for growers and €7.1 million for machine contractors, relating to loss of specialised machinery.

It is on the basis of this decision we are now being challenged, and it is completely inappropriate for me to make any statement on the matter. Although the Deputies on the Opposition side may smile, I am very aware of the implications of making any statement that could compromise the impartiality or independence of the decision made by the Government, even in the confines of the House. Although anyone would regret the dispute, that is the democracy in which we live. People are entitled to express their view and I hope the matters arising from the judicial review proceedings will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

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