Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein)

Yes, but perhaps in the discussions the Minister would suggest it as a possible opportunity under that heading.

All of us welcome the Minister's insistence on the desirability of having additional payments to support young farmers. In the north west I see many young people leaving farming. They do not see a future for themselves in agriculture. The worst thing that can happen is to have hope taken from these young people. Anything the Common Agricultural Policy or the Government can do to make it easier for these young people and to give them hope that by staying on the farm they will have a half decent future would be welcome. That is all they are seeking and it is what we should be fighting for on their behalf. I believe the Minister will do that.

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