asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the schemes of agricultural grants and aids which were abolished when the EEC directive on farm modernisation became operative; whether, in view of the current crisis in Irish farming, he will consider reintroducing some of them; and if any special new schemes of grants and assistance to Irish farmers are permissible under EEC regulations and, if not, if he will state the clauses in the Treaty of Accession to the EEC and the relevant EEC directives and regulations which prohibit them.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Agricultural Grants.
18.
Grant aid is available under the farm modernisation scheme for all the categories of capital investment on farms which were previously covered by individual schemes, except for capital investment in poultry and egg production, aid for which is not now permitted. In addition the farm modernisation scheme extends aids to certain works, including fixed equipment on farms, which did not hitherto attract grants. Since these aids continue to be available the question of reintroducig them does not arise.
Aids towards capital investment on farms are now governed by Directive 159/72 on the modernisation of farms and are subject to the conditions in that directive.
Any new measures of assistance to farmers which might be proposed by a member country would be subject to examination and approval in accordance with Articles 92 to 94 of the Rome Treaty.
Having regard to the fact that the way of life of Irish agriculture is different from that in every other European country, is the Minister quite satisfied, beyond all shadow of doubt, that the farm modernisation scheme now in operation does not warrant early review? Furthermore, has he had any consultations with farming organisations in relation to the practicability of the scheme?
I am satisfied that the levels of grant aid are now at least as high and, in some cases, higher than they have ever been before for any category of farmer.
I can quite accept that the Minister is satisfied, but can he say if all farming organisations and agricultural interests are quite satisfied and as happy as the Minister is?
All I can say is that I have heard no farming organisation complain of the scheme.
Can the Minister say if any representations in regard to the scheme have been made by the county committee of agriculture?
Not that I am aware of.
Just one supplementary. The Minister must be aware that county committees of agriculture have examined the scheme and think that it will have to be altered because it looks unsuitable on the face of it.
The Deputy is continuing to make statements, not ask questions.