With reference to the rural environment protection scheme I welcome the Minister's recently announced consultative process which will make comprehensive proposals to the EU Commission in 2003. This process will give stakeholder groups a chance to contribute to the formulation of these proposals. Consultation should be wide ranging and cover all aspects of the scheme, including the structure of REPS, individual measures, payment rates and controls and sanctions. REPS has so far delivered over €1 billion to Irish farmers. It is important that the proposals developed from the consultative process should ensure the continuation of this significant funding.