Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 22 May 1996

Vol. 465 No. 7

Written Answers. - Farm Inspections.

Hugh Byrne

Question:

120 Mr. H. Byrne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if his attention has been drawn to the fact that farmers awaiting inspection of start-up schemes or completion of necessary work are prevented from progressing such work in view of restrictions on travel expenses to his officers; the proposals, if any, he has to eliminate such logjams; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10500/96]

John Browne

Question:

126 Mr. Browne (Wexford) asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if his attention has been drawn to the fact that his Department officials in County Wexford are unable to carry out inspections for farmers in view of the fact that his Department is refusing to pay them adequate travelling expenses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10540/96]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. Yates)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 120 and 126 together.

It is presumed that the Deputies are referring to grants under the farm improvement programme in their questions. My Department's travelling budget, not only under the farm improvement programme but under all other schemes operated by my Department is of necessity limited. Every effort is made at all times to use such limited resources to best effect.

I am not aware of any general restrictions on officers' travel expenses either under the farm improvement programme or other schemes. However, as already stated, prudent use of expenses by all my Department's officers is always encouraged and in specific cases, limits, as necessary, may be imposed on such officers travelling expenses.