asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food, in light of his reply to Parliamentary Question No.93 of Tuesday, 9 May 1989, if he is aware that it is inevitable that farmers will, between the time of application and the time of inspection, dispose of their sheep because of financial pressure; and whether it is fair that his Department should penalise people who are unable to maintain their flock and will not consider payment for the number presented.
Written Answers. - Ewe Premium.
60.
Under existing rules governing the EC ewe premium scheme, flockowners who dispose of ewes between application and inspection are penalised unless the reduction in numbers presented can be attributed to natural circumstances relating to the life of the flock or to force majeure.