Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I must acknowledge that in fairness to the Minister he has taken on board every single suggestion put to him and implemented them as far as is possible.

Will the Minister examine the export of store animals out of the country? I understand there are licence applications for such exports before the Department. Will he ensure these are expedited and processed?

There is now a problem that agricultural merchants and many of the co-ops have extended credit to farmers to such an extent that they cannot extend it any further and remain viable. Will the Minister examine some mechanism to release part of the disadvantaged areas scheme payment, DAS? I know he cannot make the full payment until all inspections are completed. However, will he look at an interim payment that would allow farmers to purchase fertiliser? In my part of the country where the weather is improving, farmers do not have the money or the access to credit to buy fertiliser. Unless, fertiliser is spread over the next fortnight, we are looking at a very serious animal welfare issue and viability issues for the agricultural sector this autumn.

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