(Limerick West) asked the Minister for Agriculture whether it is now agreed by the Commission of the European Communities that grants from FEOGA in respect of the construction or improvement of pigmeat slaughtering factories will be paid at the rate of 50 per cent of approved expenditure, in respect of all parts of the country as compared with the earlier position when the 50 per cent grant was available in the disadvantaged areas only; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - FEOGA Projects Scheme.
157.
The EC Commission has made a proposal providing that approved projects relating to the marketing and processing of pigmeat in all regions of Ireland will be eligible for consideration for FEOGA aid of up to 50 per cent of expenditure. The proposal will now be brought before the Council of Ministers for its approval.
Under the FEOGA projects scheme the number of applications received annually for grants for projects relating to improvements in the marketing and processing of agricultural products is generally in excess of the funds allocated to Ireland under the scheme.