A programme for Government commitment states that we will: "Immediately prioritise the drafting of legislation for the phasing out of fur-farming, publishing legislation in this area as soon as possible." In yesterday's budget, along with the welcome increase for ex gratia funding for the animal welfare organisations, I noticed a funding commitment to unwind fur-farming operations. That is right and appropriate if we are asking people to leave this practice behind; they should be funded appropriately in doing so. Can the Tánaiste clarify the amount of that funding and update the House on the progress of the legislation that has been promised?

The legislation to outlaw fur farming in Ireland is progressing and I understand it will be brought to the Cabinet by the end of this month or perhaps early next month with a view to getting it enacted in this House before the end of the year. There is provision for compensation for the farms that are being forced to close for obvious reasons. I do not have any more information on that but perhaps the Minister of State, Deputy Heydon, can add to that.

That is effectively it. The legislation is close, funding provision has been made and that process will conclude in the near future.