Brian Cowen
Question:308 Mr. Cowen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the cost of acquiring of and leasing a farm in the Askeaton area of County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16455/95]
Written Answers. - Askeaton (Limerick) Farm Purchase.
The agreed price for the purchase of a farm, including the dwelling, in the Askeaton area is £367,500. Other costs will arise in connection with relocation, the purchase of stock and the erection of farm buildings, etc. It is not possible to give a precise figure for these costs at this stage.
As regards the leased farm, the arrangements agreed involve (a) the purchase of existing stock and fodder on the farm for £70,000, (b) the payment of an annual sum, commensurate with income which would be obtained from a comparable size farm operating at full output, in respect of the lease of the land and milk quota and for the day-to-day operation of the farm under the direction of my Department and Teagasc and (c) restocking of the farm at the end of the investigation.
These arrangements were necessary to secure the participation of both farms in the veterinary aspects of this investigation into cattle deaths and illnesses in the Askeaton area. These aspects are regarded by all those involved as critical elements in the overall study of this problem.