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Dáil
‹ Questions on Promised Legislation

Tractor statutory instrument reversal

Summary

Deputies McGrath and Kenny sought urgent Dáil action to revoke a statutory instrument affecting tractors over 40 km/h. The Minister of State said it had been agreed and given priority, with officials working on it and a direct follow-up promised.

Pat the Cope Gallagher An Leas-Cheann Comhairle Fianna Fáil

I call a representative of the Rural Independent Group.

Comment on this

A statutory instrument signed into law by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Ross, about a month ago affects tractors which can do 40 km/h or more. The Minister has since announced that he is withdrawing it but I understand that a statutory procedure has to come before the House for the House to decide to undo or remove the statutory instrument. There is only 30 days for it to be rejected by the Dáil but the tractors in question are necessary for our agricultural economy. We are running out of time, as the Chief Whip knows, as the end of the 30-day period is next week. When will the process to reject the statutory instrument be brought before the House?

Comment on this

On the same issue, Deputy Fitzmaurice and I put down a motion on yesterday's Order Paper. In fairness to the Minister, Deputy Ross, I understand he has agreed that the statutory instrument was done in haste and should be reviewed, allowing for more consultation with the farming community. Will the Government agree to take the necessary motion, without debate, in the coming days in order to resolve the situation?

Comment on this
Joe McHugh Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach Fine Gael

The Minister, Deputy Ross, has agreed to do so and we have agreed so it will be given priority.

Comment on this

There is less than a week.

Comment on this

Will it be done in the next few days?

Comment on this

The officials are working on it and I will get back directly to both Deputies on it.

Comment on this

The motion is there - it is just a matter of agreeing it.

Comment on this