andMr. D. Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will arrange with the EEC to provide a consumer price index linked pension scheme for farmers who sell their land under the EEC farm retirement scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Farmers' Pension Scheme.
10.
The annuities paid to farmers who retire under the existing farmer retirement scheme, which is operated under EEC Directive 160/72, have for some years past been revised annually to take account of changes in the consumer price index. Amendments to Directive 160 are due for consideration in the course of the review of the EEC Structural Directives which is taking place this year.
Will the Minister of State inform the House of the effects of the budget proposals on the farmer retirement scheme? Has he any up-to-date reaction on the termination of the scheme as announced in the budget?
I consider that a separate question but I wish to be helpful to the House. It is true that the farmer retirement scheme was never a success in this country and we will have to have another look at it in order to make it more attractive to people. As the Deputy is well aware, it has not worked particularly well here.
Is the Minister of State aware that the scheme is being terminated because of the lack of provision in the budget? Is termination of the scheme the review the Minister is considering?
As announced in the budget, the scheme has been terminated for this year. However, I want to make it clear to the House that there is a review of the matter at the moment. Most people hope that when the review is completed the scheme will be of greater benefit to the people for whom it was intended in the first place.
I regard this proposal as a retrograde step. I am sure the Minister will agree——
This matter can be raised on the budget debate.
The Minister of State and I represent constituencies in the west——
Much as the Chair would like to facilitate a homely discussion between neighbouring Deputies, I do not think it is in order at Question Time.
I regard the termination of a scheme as a very strange review, particularly with regard to a scheme which has been worthwhile.
No doubt the Deputy will say that very forcefully in his contribution to the budget debate.
I will.