Vol. 481 No. 7
164 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when 1997 sheep headage premia will be paid; and if payment will be expedited in view of the extreme financial difficulties sheep farmers are currently suffering. [17242/97]
Payment of the 1997 sheep headage grants which commenced on 28 September last are ongoing with a view to ensuring that all but the most intractable problem cases are paid as soon as possible in line with commitments set out in the charter of rights for farmers.
165 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Sligo will receive her headage payment in view of the fact that she is suffering severe financial hardship; and if he will expedite payment. [17243/97]
Part of this applicant's forage area has apparently been claimed by both the person named and another applicant in 1996 and 1997. My Department is contacting both parties with a view to resolving the difficulty.
Payment will be made immediately if the difficulty is resolved satisfactorily.
