Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his response but he did not indicate his own position on a time extension for the current review. It was reported that the Minister and Austria sought this extension. Will he confirm that is the case and why this is so? He indicates that people in the EU are currently considering that request but will the Minister give an update on when they will make a decision? Will it come at an upcoming Council of Ministers meeting or will it be communicated to the Minister?

It sounds as if this is a matter of kicking for touch by the Minister and that he does not really wish to deal with the issue. That is my suspicion, so will he deal with it? If an extension is being considered and if it is granted, will it still be the case that the maps must be submitted by the end of this year? If so, will there be proper consultation with farmers in advance? It is crucial that fairness is brought to the scheme and that we ensure payment levels reflect the constraints on the land for which they are paid.

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