Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Gabhaim buíochas for the information that the Minister has provided there. I refer to the flexibilities the Minister has held out for. These have left uncertainty as to what the final result will be, and most pressingly, whether it will abide by the status quoof favour to the bigger farmers or whether it will genuinely reallocate resources and do more to protect the small and medium-sized farmers. The 10% ring fence as a frontloaded payment, specifically with smaller farmers in mind, is one measure I know that has been mooted as a protection measure and I am aware that the Minister has referred to a few others there.

One would hope that there would be suite of measures being employed. The Clare farmers, in particular, have mentioned to me that access to and being able to avail of the eco schemes is of great importance to them and they are looking for clarity around that and a commitment that that will not impact on their single farm payment.

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