Jim O'Keeffe
Question:18 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development when he expects the proposed agriculturel appeals office to be established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3902/01]
Written Answers. - Agriculturel Appeals Office.
The Agriculture Appeals Bill, 2001, is under consideration by the Oireachtas. Yesterday the Bill passed its Second Stage in the Seanad. Once the Bill is passed by the Oireachtas, it is my intention to set up the office as soon as possible thereafter. The protocol on direct payments, which was drawn up by my Department in conjunction with the social partner farm organisations, includes a commitment that the office will be established within three months of the Bill's passage by the Oireachtas.