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

Deputy McConalogue and I have discussed Mercosur on several occasions. I have been in contact on many occasions, including very recently, with Commissioner Hogan on the matter. It is not his direct area of responsibility. The Taoiseach has been in contact with several member states which share our analysis and has been in direct contact with the President of the European Commission. Every effort is being made to create an awareness of our concerns and I hope that will influence the outcome.

I have met the Beef Plan Movement. On Deputy O'Keeffe’s question, it is our intention, after the Commission finalises the terms and conditions of the funding available, to meet the farm organisations to discuss how that funding will be distributed. After that meeting, a scheme will be designed for which applications will be invited. It is the intention to pay as early as possible.

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