Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

-----when we need to support real farmers in disadvantaged areas.

That is why we also have a fair derogation system, which is being applied at present, and will have a fair appeals system with an independent chair, who is currently the chair of Connacht Gold. I say that in case anybody is concerned that the west of Ireland is not being represented - it is.

This has been a very difficult year and for many farmers continues to be so. It is true that farmers will not get the kind of bumper year's harvest they got last year. Farming has peaks and troughs in terms of weather, pressure, pricing and so on. It is my job to get farmers through the tough years and ensure they can benefit to the maximum in the good years. That is what we are trying to do with all the measures we are taking.

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