Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

It was reduced to 2% and the repayments were also rescheduled. The concerns raised during discussion on that legislation were, in my view, addressed considerably.

Many Senators raised the claw-back or attachment issue. I assure Senators that the Department will not be draconian in terms of how it will deal with these issues. I agree with many of the sentiments expressed that we must take the opportunity to inform farmers on the matter and the Department will involve itself in a campaign in that regard. I hope also that Members of both Houses will take the opportunity, in their own inimitable way, of putting forward the issues concerned. The Department will try to contact as many people as it can and make available to them all the information possible.

Some Senators mentioned that many of the measures being introduced are causing concern. The Department of Social and Family Affairs had access to attachment orders. Every effort will be made to support people wishing to buy out. If a solicitor can indicate with sincerity to the Department that a farmer is dealing with his or her affairs, that will be acceptable. We all agree there are many difficulties in terms of estates, transfers, probate and so on. The Department will be sensible in its dealings with people during the six months lead in time ahead. People will have the opportunity before the enactment of the legislation to get their affairs in order and we want to ensure that people take it up.

The idea was suggested that people who would obtain the trusteeship when it is vested in Croke Park might sell GAA grounds. That cannot happen because if it is vested in Croke Park, the trustees in Croke Park must give permission for any sale. It would be a matter for the organisation and there it should lie.

Senator Leyden raised the issue of trusteeship, which is a difficult and complex matter. Some who are trustees for a long time may feel that the property belongs to them when it is held in trust on behalf of the people and that can lead to personality difficulties. People who were trustees of pensions were not familiar with their role and in any type of trusteeship people should be aware of what they are getting into and what their powers are. Their consent should be sought democratically. That does not always happen but that is how it should be.

Other issues were raised outside the parameters of this legislation and we will have opportunities to discuss them in the near future. The IFA is lobbying this afternoon for compensation from CPOs to be exempt from capital gains tax. That is an issue for the Minister for Finance and it will be brought to him in due course in the context of the budget. It is a valid point, particularly when many farmers have been reluctant to sell under the land purchase scheme and CPOs had to be invoked. It is an issue that should be examined.

The changes and challenges we all face were raised. We are very supportive of the live export trade, particularly the weanling trade. There are concerns about the trade and my Department and I will do all we can to ensure it continues and to open new markets. Last week we opened the market in Algeria, which will be valuable to our exporters. I will discuss many other issues with the Seanad in due course.

Staff redeployment was mentioned. Ten staff will be redeployed within the Department where there are greater pressures. I was also asked what will happen to the money raised. Any decision will be taken in consultation with the Department of Finance but we may look at innovative ideas that could be financed through funding provided by the implementation of this legislation.

I want to get rid of the idea that because I am from Donegal I will not look after people in the south of the State. When I was Aire Stáit sa Roinn Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán, the people of Galway thought I would not help them. However, I represent the Government on behalf of all Members and it is my intention to ensure everyone gets the opportunity to promote their causes.

Senator Browne is right, the sugar beet industry faces difficult times with significant repercussions not just for producers, but for manufacturers. We will not have as many friends in court when it comes to the consultations but we will make every effort and use every personal contact we have to ensure we get the best possible deal for a valuable industry, particularly for certain areas of the country.

Gabhaim buíochas don Teach as ucht na hocáide a bheith anseo le tús a chur leis an Bhille seo agus go pearsanta d'achan duine a bhí páirteach inti. Tá súil agam go mbeidh díospóireacht bhreá againn ar Chéim an Choiste.