Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the engagement with the agriculture committee on this issue and the discussion in respect of it. I am sure the ICBF will welcome and consider any proposals or suggestions arising from that. It is set up with a board, which includes very strong farmer representation, and is considering the matter.

The aspect I am considering is the impact on the SCEP scheme in the context of the data and scientific evidence showing an alteration to star ratings. As I stated, 84% of animals that were deemed to be 4-star or 5-star prior to the changes have retained that status. If the data and evidence in respect of profitability and breeding merits of animals change, however, and the science and data show that, there is no changing that. What I am doing is making sure those who are engaging with SCEP in good faith and doing all the right things do not lose out financially in the context of that programme. If a farmer owns one of the 16% of cows that were 4-star or 5-star but dropped, the farmer will still get paid the SCEP money as long as the cow remains in the herd.

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