Noel Coonan (Tipperary North, Fine Gael)

The four year plan refers specifically to "reduced expenditure on ERS [early retirement scheme] due to scheme closure". The Minister should confirm or deny that this is what is contained in the plan.

With regard to the schemes for young farmers, does the Minister intend to restore installation aid? It is important to continue with the raw material and lifeblood of farming, namely, the farmers. Finally, has the Minister communicated specific proposals directly to the European Commission as to what is the Government's position? Does one such proposal state clearly that the third option is completely out for Ireland because it is against our national interests in developing agriculture?

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