Vol. 481 No. 4
111 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the arbitration procedure which is available to a farmer whose herd has been totally depopulated due to BSE and where there is a dispute in relation to the compensation payable between the farmer and his Department; if there is a full time arbitrator available to deal with these disputes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16466/97]
By virtue of Article 4 of the Diseases of Animals (Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy) (Amendment) (No. 2) Order, 1990, in the event of an owner refusing to accept the market value placed on the herd by the independent valuer, the matter may be referred for decision by an arbitrator appointed by agreement between the owner and the Minister, or, failing such agreement, appointed by the Minister. The decision of the arbitrator is final and binding on both parties.
