Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
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Question 544: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if REP scheme inspectors can call unannounced to farms to make inspections; the health and safety standards these inspectors are trained to; what, if any insurance do inspectors have when they are carrying out farm inspections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15414/12]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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REPS 4 is a measure under the current 2007-13 Rural Development Programme and is subject to the relevant EU Regulation in relation to inspection procedures and other issues. My Department's policy with regard to REPS inspections is that they are unannounced. This practice is provided for in the EU regulations. All Inspectors are aware of health and safety standards and that they must comply with these standards. At all times the State carries the liability for its employees in the performance of their duties.