Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I compliment the Minister on this legislation. The independent appeals office does a very important job to make sure that if farmers have an issue with the Department, they can go to an independent actor. The fact that it is independent is why it is so important. Even though it works within the remit of the Department to some degree, it is still independent. "Independent" is the important word in the entire set-up. It gives the farming community a level of reassurance that if an issue with the Department arises, they have a place to go. Previously, the office has worked quite well.

The amendments brought forward by the Minister are helpful. I have sat in on these boards with constituents. I realise how stressful it can be for farmers when they have to go through this process. It is an important process that helps the farming community have faith in the system. That is what is important here.

While there may not be much interest in this in the Seanad, there is significant interest in the farming community, which is very much aware of this legislation. They are also aware of the good work the appeals system does. It is now about trying to make sure that this legislation is passed, signed and moved on. Hopefully we can have it enacted in the next few hours.