Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his reply. Can he give us an update on when exactly he expects banks to issue loans to farmers and these moneys to end up in farmers' accounts? It has been reported in the media that the timeframe for the scheme is being pushed out. It has been indicated that it will not be up and running until April or May. The idea underpinning the fund is that it will alleviate the cashflow problems that are being encountered in many sectors of agriculture. It is absolutely crucial for it to be made available as promptly as possible. The Minister indicated that "normal lending assessment criteria will apply". Obviously, it will be unsecured. Will this mean that farmers who are under particular pressure because of cashflow difficulties will be excluded from the scheme? The Minister has refused to heed repeated calls to assist farmers in the tillage sector who are in crisis because they have lost many of their crops. I know they will be able to make applications under this scheme, but I suggest it is not the answer for them. Will he accept the rationale and need for a crisis fund to assist these farmers? Will he introduce such a scheme as quickly as possible?

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