asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if cattle headage grants will be paid to farmers in underdeveloped areas in 1976; and, if so, if the same pattern will be followed as in 1975.
48.
Written Answers. - Cattle Headage Grants.
47.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware that some farmers in the Sligo-Leitrim constituency are still awaiting their cattle headage grants; if he will indicate the reason for the delay; and when it is expected to clear all bona fide applications.
49.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will tabulate the difficulties in connection with applications for cattle headage grants which cause delays in payment of such grants.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle I propose to take Questions Nos. 47, 48 and 49 together.
The principal cause of delay in clearing applications under the cattle headage scheme is the necessity to investigate incomplete or inaccurate applications and to establish eligibility and ownership of herds in a large number of cases. In a number of instances also suspected breaches of the Livestock Breeding Act and the Diseases of Animals Act have had to be investigated.
In the Sligo-Leitrim area a small number of farmers have not yet received grants, due mainly to incorrect herd registration. These cases are being dealt with as quickly as possible and moneys due will be paid within the next two weeks.
The terms and conditions of the scheme for 1976 are at present under consideration and will be announced as soon as possible.