Vol. 524 No. 5
239 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he is excluding farmers with appropriate farming and auctioneering qualifications from consideration for appointment as approved independent val uers; and his views on whether these applicants should be considered. [23369/00]
Approximately 600 applications from individuals seeking inclusion in the proposed panel of valuers for on-farm valuation work under the TB and brucellosis eradication schemes were received by the closing date of 29 September. My Department is currently examining these applications and until such time as this process is completed, final decisions have not been taken on individual cases or collective groups. The arrangements in relation to the operation of the new regime are being discussed with the farming organisations.
