I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 86 together.
Arrangements for the application of EC measures relating to environmentally sensitive areas are in preparation in my Department and I am not in a position at this stage to provide information regarding the manner in which finance will be allocated or the criteria for the selection of locations. Participation in an environmentally sensitive areas scheme is voluntary.
The Community regulation governing environmentally sensitive areas does not require any change in the arrangements for headage payments in those areas.
The payments under the environmentally sensitive areas scheme are designed to compensate participants in the scheme for works undertaken or for loss of income arising from any changes in production practices that may be required.