Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There is an appeal system in place already for applicants who consider that an inspection has not been conducted appropriately. The system involves an appeal to a senior officer within the Department, with the option to appeal further to an independent agriculture appeals office and, ultimately, the Office of the Ombudsman. As per the programme for Government commitment to do so, the Minister, Deputy Creed, and his Department are carrying out a review of the Agriculture Appeals Act 2001. That is to ensure the independence and efficiency of the office dealing with appeals from farmers. A steering committee has been established to oversee the delivery of that programme for Government commitment and the Minister will make a statement on it as soon as there is further progress.

See this speech in context