During the talks on the formation of the Government, members of the Rural Independent Group raised an issue. The programme for Government committed to reviewing the discrimination against farming families and self-employed businesses, especially small business people, who require access to the fair deal scheme. I understand that a review has been carried out and that a working group has been established to move the matter forward. Where is this working group at? When does it expect to report? When can we expect legislation? It is hugely unfair and very traumatising and damaging to businesses, landholdings and families that this discrimination exists in the present legislation.

The Department has been engaging with the IFA and small businesses over recent months. We would expect to have a conclusion to this in the coming weeks.