Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Oct 2001

Vol. 542 No. 3

Written Answers. - Bovine Diseases.

Seamus Kirk

Question:

115 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will consider introducing an appeals procedure where farmers are dissatisfied with price and grade for animals slaughtered on foot of disease eradication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24501/01]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

Under the terms of the on-farm market valuation scheme for the TB and brucellosis schemes, which is being introduced on a phased basis, eligible herdowners or my Department may appeal the independent valuation placed on animals being removed under these schemes. If there is still no agreement following the appeal, the matter can be referred to an arbitration panel whose decision is binding on both parties.

The arbitration panel will consist of an independent chairperson together with representation from the farming organisations and from my Department. The chairperson and the Department's representative have been selected but I am awaiting notification of an agreed candidate from the farming organisations as to which person will represent them on the panel.

Question No. 116 answered with Question No. 107.