Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Even minor transgressions can have serious financial consequences for farmers. I am informed that the attitude of some inspectors leaves a great deal to be desired. The farming organisations have called for the establishment of a yellow card system whereby penalties would not kick in until a number of such cards have been accumulated. It is grossly unfair that advance notice of inspections is not provided. As a matter of courtesy, farmers should be given at least 24 hours' notice of inspections in order that they might make themselves available or be present when such inspections are taking place. The vast majority of farmers care for the environment and want to comply with the law. I saw practical evidence of this in Ballinasloe, where I reside, earlier this week when 160 farmers brought oil, pesticides and veterinary products to the mart in the town as part of a pilot scheme organised by Teagasc. This is a sort of bring-centre project designed to facilitate the secure disposal of unsafe substances. Under the inspection system, farmers are being treated like criminals, and that is unfair. I would like a system such as that operated by Health Information and Quality Authority, HIQA, and the Health and Safety Authority, HSA, to be put in place in order that farmers might be given time to deal with any issues relating to non-compliance. If farmers can meet the requirements and ensure compliance within a certain period, then they should not be penalised.

I request an open and frank debate with the Minister, Deputy Coveney. In the aftermath of his most recent visit to the House, every Member was satisfied with regard to the range of topics with which he dealt. It would be good if he could return to the Seanad before Christmas.