John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for selecting this topic, namely the serious disadvantage at which the farming community on Clare Island and, indeed, all of the islands, are as regards their income from farming.

First, these farmers were ready and willing to join REPS 4, but could not put their plans together because all of the planners were taken up with the farming plans for farmers on the mainland. Then it was withdrawn overnight, effectively, before they had a chance to get their plans formalised. In addition to all of the other cutbacks in farming that these communities have experienced, they have had no income from REPS and, therefore, 60% of their farming income was effectively wiped away.

On behalf of these farmers, I appeal for special consideration. The new scheme is a contentious scheme that has yet to come into place. If it comes into place, however, I ask that some special consideration be given to the farmers on the islands for a 50% top-up on the new scheme that would replace REPS, that a special island top-up would be given to those in REPS 4 who are in the scheme and, for instance, that the outstanding payments to farmers who were given grants under the farm waste management scheme would be paid up-front. It is only right and proper.

These people on the islands are at a serious disadvantage. I have a list of produce that must be transported off the island and requirements that must be brought onto the island, and the extra costs involved for those people.

I appeal to the goodwill of the Minister of State. This is not something that will cost millions of euro. What we are asking for is a fair crack of the whip for these farmers. I ask that they be given special consideration, both in regard to the old REPS 4 scheme, if they got into it, and in the new scheme, when it is finalised.

See this speech in context