asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries whether farmers in Annaghdown, Claregalway, Carnmore and Oranmore, County Galway will be eligible for headage grants in 1976.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cattle Headage Grants.
21.
As the Deputy is aware, representations have been received from many districts throughout the disadvantaged areas seeking designation as severely handicapped for purposes of payment of livestock headage grants under the relevant EEC directive. A detailed review which has been carried out by the Department and which is now nearing completion has confirmed that the boundaries generally are broadly correct and that only marginal adjustments in a few areas would be warranted. Proposals for changes will be submitted to the EEC Commission in the near future and an announcement will be made as early as possible.
Will either of the areas mentioned in the question be included in the designated areas for the scheme next year?
There will be a general announcement covering any areas that may be included later.
Have the areas mentioned in the question been fully examined?
All areas have been fully examined and if any adjustments are made a general announcement will cover the lot.
The examinations have been carried out by officers of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries?
Yes, by the Department.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary say who eventually decides on the recommendations to be made to the EEC as to whether these areas are to be brought within the scope of the scheme or otherwise? Is he aware that last year the Minister stated that these areas were designated solely by the EEC without any recommendations being made by our Government?
Proposals will be submitted to the EEC and they will determine finally what areas, if any, are to be included.