(Limerick West) asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will agree that the recent subsidy scheme announced for crop farmers is totally inadequate and that it only caters for the bigger farmer; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Working Capital Scheme.
83.
The working capital scheme allows an interest subsidy of 5 per cent per annum for up to one year on loans up to £10,000. The scheme is aimed at full time tillage producers who suffered genuine losses as a result of the poor weather in 1985. Eligibility is based on a minimum acreage grown in 1985; however tillage growers with acreages as low as three acres of field horticultural crops or 20 acres of cereals may qualify for subsidy.