Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his reply and I implore him to step back, even at this late stage, from this madness and economic folly by the Government. What the Minister will save will be spent by the Minister for Social and Family Affairs on an increased number of farm assist payments.

Rounded up, the figures given by the Minister suggest that by the end of 2010, approximately 20,000 less than the current total of 62,000 will be in REPS. This will cause phenomenal hardship to farm families. The Minister is aware that the Teagasc farm survey for 2008 and the anticipated results of a survey for 2009 will show income reductions of the magnitude of 30% to 35%. No other sector in the economy is suffering this type of income collapse. REPS puts bread and butter on the table for many farmers and it is collateral for bank loans.

I remind the Minister of a commitment in the programme for Government - although I appreciate that it is a work of fiction - to have participation rates of 70,000. However, he stated that by the end of 2010 it will be reduced to 42,000. Will the Minister step back from this folly? It is not too late to change his mind, admit he made a mistake and reopen REPS 4 for those ending their participation in REPS 2 or REPS 3 to maintain the participation levels at 62,000.

See this speech in context