Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

My understanding is that there will be potential for tiered levels of designation, as is currently the case, within the final designation. The objective now is to secure disadvantaged status against the set of biophysical criteria. Within that status, there will be provision for tiered designation as is currently the case. There are various designations throughout the country. The gap is slightly wider because the islands attract a significantly higher level of payment. That tiered approach will, I hope, remain an integral part of the system. It is far too premature to talk about what areas may now be designated which status. We have to work to the criteria laid down. I envisage a tiered approach at a later stage.

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