Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

An important proof of our commitment in this area is the fact that we have one of the most generously funded disadvantaged schemes in the European Union. There is an acknowledgement at European level that our commitment to the scheme supports our views on the matter. I take Deputy Crawford's point regarding commercial farmers. However, the true importance of this scheme is that it provides a source of income for 100,000 farming families working in the worst land area conditions in the State. Our aim is to ensure these families continue to benefit from the scheme.

Every Deputy is aware of particular individuals who claim they were unfairly excluded from the most recent review in regard to disadvantaged areas. We will make the case in regard to soil conditions and other criteria. It is important to bear in mind that the review process is at a relatively early stage. Criteria are being reviewed with a view to coming forward with a scheme at European level. At this stage, the onus is on us to ensure that criteria which are important from an Irish perspective continue to be part of the consideration of this important matter.

See this speech in context