Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for her reply. Does she agree we are witnessing a mass exodus of sheep farmers from the industry accompanied by a very significant drop in sheep numbers, and that if this trend continues there is a real danger that the industry will lose its critical mass to enable it to survive and prosper because of economies of scale? If she accepts that contention does she not agree that while the sheep strategy review takes a long-term strategic view of the industry, it fails to take cognisance of one significant issue, which is that if we do not protect the number of farmers in the industry by way of meaningful financial input directly into the sector, we will not have the basis of an industry to protect and allow to prosper in a few years' time? As a result, will the Minister consider a similar scheme to the suckler cow grant scheme she introduced in the beef sector? Will she consider a ewe grant to stabilise sheep numbers now so that we can safeguard the industry?

I accept that Question No. 46 addresses this subject specifically. The suspension of the farm investment scheme grant, which had a specific fencing grants section targeted at the sheep sector for handling facilities etc., will seriously undermine the on-farm viability of a number of these enterprises. Will the Minister consider, even in a targeted way, restoring the grant scheme specifically for that sector?

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