asked the Minister for Agriculture (i) the reason farm modernisation grants were suspended; and (ii) the percentage of these grants which were paid from EEC funds.
Written Answers. - Farm Modernisation Grants.
849.
Grant aid under the farm modernisation scheme for investment in farm buildings and fixed assets was suspended with effect from 10 February 1983 because of the limited Exchequer resources which could be made available.
Recoupment from EEC funds at a rate of 50 per cent of eligible expenditure in the western region and 25 per cent elsewhere is available only in respect of grant aid to farmers in the development category. The amount received in recoupment represents about 15 per cent of the Exchequer expenditure on grant aid for investment by all categories of farmers.