asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the average delay in payment of farm grants; and the steps, if any, he is taking to improve the position.
67.
Written Answers. - Farm Grants.
45.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the major delays in the payment of grants from his Department; to the fact that some farm development scheme grants passed and fully authenticated, will not be paid until the end of December 1989; the causes of these delays; and the action, if any, he is taking to ensure prompt payment of their due entitlements to farmers.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 45 and 67 together.
As the demand for farm improvement grants this year has been greater than anticipated there is a short time lag in payments. It is hoped to have all out-standing grants paid later in the year.