Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State. When he gets the opportunity, there are a couple of issues he might revert to me on. First, while I welcome his comments on the Department, I would like confirmation in regard to whether we are consulting the authorities north of the Border in regard to the level of disease there. Are we working jointly on that, given it is essential we do so? Second, it is important the Department would look into the issue of the time it is taking to remove affected cattle from farms. Several farmers have contacted me on this issue, including today, so I look forward to the Minister of State's response. Perhaps he will look into it directly.

The Minister of State mentioned compensation levels and it is important compensation is paid out as soon as possible. As he rightly acknowledged, it can be a very worrying, sad and stressful time for farmers who discover their herds are affected. We must do all we can to eradicate this disease, which has to be our goal. However, where the disease does break out, we must look after the farmers as quickly as possible.