Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)

I appreciate that an issue as complex as industrial relations will not be resolved on the floor of the House, although I do hope it can be resolved promptly. I seek an assurance from the Minister of State that REPS 4 applicants who applied before 15 May and are now caught in the crossfire will not have their payments delayed unduly.

On a related matter, which probably goes to the heart of the industrial dispute, will the Minister comment on the EU audit inspection of REPS payments in Ireland? Will he confirm to the House that the State is facing a fine which was originally predicted to be €100 million but may be revised downwards to around €60 million? Has budgetary provision been made in the Department this year for such an eventuality?

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