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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 24 Mar 1994

Vol. 440 No. 6

Written Answers. - EU Set-Aside Scheme.

Liz McManus

Question:

26 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the total estimated acreage to be taken out of production this year under the EU set-aside scheme; the total number of farmers expected to qualify; the total amount likely to be paid out in compensation; if the EU are considering any proposals for the more useful use of such land, such as the promotion of alternative crops; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Due to recent changes in the rules on set-aside, it is not possible at this stage to estimate the acreage which will be taken out of production this year under the EU set-aside scheme. Similarly it is not possible to estimate the number of farmers expected to qualify or the total amount likely to be paid in compensation. However, in 1993 approximately 26,000 hectares were set aside by 2,680 applicants under the scheme and approximately £6.8 million was paid in compensation.

In addition £39 million compensation was paid to 17,150 farmers, including those who put land into set-aside, for areas sown to eligible arable crops.

Under the rules which apply at present, set-aside land may be used for the provision of materials for manufacture, within the Union, of products not primarily intended for human or animal consumption.

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