asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if a pre-development scheme for farmers who do not immediately qualify for inclusion in the development category of the farm modernisation scheme was submitted to the EEC Commission by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Farm Development Scheme.
48.
Mr. Kitt
As I indicated in my reply on 15th December, 1976, our main concern regarding the operation of Directive 159 is to get more farmers into the development category. In discussions relating to the review of the directive during recent months, our concern in this regard was clearly indicated to the EEC Commission. One of the possibilities covered in the discussions was that of a pre-development scheme to cater for farmers not able to qualify immediately for development status. Following the discussions the Commission will report on the review of the directive within the next few months and the report is expected to include proposals for modification of the present system.