A Cheann Comhairle-----

I thank Deputy Coppinger. I call Deputy Michael Collins.

A Cheann Comhairle, under Standing Order 35(3)-----

Sorry, you are not entitled to speak. I call Deputy Michael Collins.

No, I am entitled to speak.

You are not entitled to speak in this instance.

I am, and the Clerk can confirm. Under Standing Order 35(3), "Any member may propose an amendment to the motion for the adoption of the arrangements for the week’s business: Provided that ..." they provide adequate detail. I wish to propose-----

Hear, hear.

Just a second, Deputy-----

I wish to propose-----

I just want to confirm that. We will stop the clock.

Very well.

We will come back to Deputy Ó Laoghaire when we are finished with Deputy Collins.

Hear, hear. Very welcome.

We will now restart the clock.

I thank the Ceann Comhairle.

I agree with the previous speakers, but there are other issues of serious concern too. Today we need time to debate farmers' payments and the delay in same, up to months for some people. A staggering 9,300 farmers are waiting since early 2024 on delayed agri-climate rural environment scheme, ACRES, payments, 2,300 of whom are waiting for their payments since 2023. There are also farmers in the targeted agricultural modernisation scheme, TAMS, and the suckler carbon efficiency programme, SCEP, waiting for urgent payment. The Minister has promised to solve this issue, but if farmers are waiting almost two years for their income, it puts them under enormous pressure. A debate must be had in this House immediately to try to address that issue.

I thank the Deputy. Before Deputy Ó Laoghaire begins, I ask the Clerk to confirm his entitlement.