Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for the comprehensive reply. It is a significant change from what farmers have been used to over the last years. I have concerns about the design of the eco-schemes. It is important that no farmers are left outside that. There were concerns about the recent results-based environment agri pilot programme, REAP, which excluded commonage and Natura land. It is important that any eco-scheme does not discriminate against those. They have every right and provide much more biodiversity that should be rewarded as part of an eco-scheme. I welcome and acknowledge the work on peatlands because there was significant concern that peatlands which have been actively farmed would be excluded from being eligible for payment. Due to the work of Government, that has been changed. I acknowledge the work of the Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association, INHFA, on that issue. I thank the Minister of State for his reply.