Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Dec 1997

Vol. 483 No. 6

Written Answers. - Rural Environment Protection Scheme.

Andrew Boylan

Question:

222 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his Department will allow a 1997 REP scheme payment to a person (details supplied) in County Cavan in view of the fact that due to financial hardship he is not currently in a position to meet all of the requirements of his plan but will during the duration of the plan; if his Department will use its discretion to allow him to continue in this excellent scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21421/97]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

Following a compliance inspection of this applicant's holding a 10 per cent penalty is being applied because of a failure by the applicant to maintain hedgerows as specified in his REPS plan. The applicant has been given an opportunity to appeal this penalty but so far an appeal has not been received. Payments, less penalty, will issue to the applicant within the week.