Kevin O'Keeffe (Cork East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge the Minister's response. He referred to a 1997 Act. I am sure we could get that amended or introduce changes to the definition of agricultural contractors' activities. Would he be in favour of that? Can that be done? Farmers in many sectors are under fierce pressure. The overheads for beef and tillage farmers are colossal. The changes in the Bill will come at a phenomenal cost to many farmers in the coming 12 months. Contractors will have to increase their charges by 5% at a minimum. Some are in debt because they have already agreed credit terms with farmers. This only makes the situation worse. I ask the Minister to reconsider.

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