Lorraine Higgins (Labour)

I welcome the Minister. The issue I raise is the ongoing situation with farm inspections, particularly in Galway East. Indeed, since I raised this matter on the Order of Business last week I have been informed that it occurs in other parts of the country. A practice exists whereby inspectors are arriving on farms to conduct inspections without giving any prior notice to the farmer. Some of the inspectors from the Department are arriving under the guise of the animal feed and hygiene regulations, where no notice period is required under EU law. However, they then carry out tagging inspections on cattle and sheep, even though 48 hours notice is required, and further inspections on land eligibility, where up to 14 days notice should be given.

When they carry out these departmental inspections in this manner it is clear they are in flagrant and utter disregard of the law. In effect, they are acting illegally. As a consequence, the farmers of east Galway dread hearing about departmental inspections. There is a huge element of fear throughout the community. Often farmers are afraid to stand up for their rights for fear of any detrimental action being taken against them, specifically against their single farm payment. It is wrong and an unacceptable reign of terror over the farming community. These people are completely unaware of their rights and EU law. A new charter of rights must be sent to all farmers in Ireland so they can be fully informed of their rights.

Does the Minister agree that there is a problem with this matter? If so, can the Minister outline what steps the Department will take to alleviate this unacceptable situation?