Vol. 462 No. 4
28 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry when he proposes to issue the list of areas included in the extension of disadvantaged areas in view of the fact that the EU Commission is in a position to finalise this extension; and if he will ensure that the benefits to farmers qualifying for the scheme will apply in 1996. [4700/96]
31 Mr. Briscoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry when the decision on the extension of the disadvantaged areas submitted by Ireland to the EU on 11 November 1994 will be known. [4677/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 31 together.
The necessary internal procedures for submission of this proposal for decision by the Commission have now commenced, and I am confident that the Commission will take a formal decision during March. Following this, it will be placed before the Council of Ministers and the European Parliament. The Council of Agriculture Ministers will take the final decision after the European Parliament has given its advice.
When the Commission decision is made public, I intend to announce the list of areas to be included in the extension. I intend that the farmers in the new areas will benefit from the relevant headage schemes in 1996.
