Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Can the Minister give us a little bit more information on the work that is under way by the Department at the Minister's request? Is there a proposal from the Department on the table which outlines what this scheme might look like? The Minister has mentioned eligibility, and it is critically important that we get that element of it right. Is there engagement with farm organisations or others on what the scheme might look like before it will be entirely rolled out? Is that something the Minister is looking at?

On clarification for these farmers, will they be able to access the new young farmers scheme and the national reserve? Those questions are being asked as well. As much clarity as possible is important for this cohort of farmers, given that they have waited and are still waiting for far too long. I know the Minister would share that view. This matter needs to be dealt with as quickly as possible. If it will be a number of months then at least the Minister can give them that bit of clarity but they need some timeframe on their futures. That is only fair.

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