Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 4 Nov 1992

Vol. 424 No. 9

Written Answers. - EC Structural Funds.

Ivan Yates

Question:

132 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food whether approvals are still being issued under the control of farmyard pollution scheme; if not, the reason therefor; and if he will ensure that all eligible applicants are fully accommodated.

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The position is that the EC Structural Funds allocated to Ireland under the Operational Programme for the Control of Farmyard Pollution have been fully committed. Consequently, it is not possible to deal with any further applications pending a commitment from the EC as to additional funding.

Farmers with current grant approval under the measures will be paid the grant when the approved works are completed to the satisfaction of the Department within the prescribed time. Grant aid for pollution control works continues to be available under the farm improvement programme.

I am aware of the importance of the control of farmyard pollution scheme. For this reason, I will be seeking to ensure maximum support for continuation of this measure in the context of Ireland's submission to the EC for a new allocation of Structural Funds.