Vol. 485 No. 4
62 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the steps, if any, he has taken to increase the staff complement at Hume House, Dublin 4 to deal with the appeals against disqualification to various premium subsidies and area aid based schemes; the length of time it is currently taking to have an appeal fully processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23327/97]
There are four members attached to the headage and premia appeals unit of the Department. This unit is based in Agriculture House, having been transferred there last July from the Department's offices in Hume House, Ballsbridge.
The appeals units, which reviews decisions taken in the various local offices of the Department in relation to area aid headage and premia schemes, provides a valuable and effective service and reflects my Department's commitment to openness and equity in its dealings with farmers.
Of the 1997 appeals which have been completed, the average turnaround time has been somewhat over three months although there are more lengthy delays in processing some of the more complex appeals.
While this is longer than I would wish, the turnaround time is an improvement on the corresponding figures in respect of 1995 and 1996 and reflects my commitment to using the resources of the Department, and staff resources in particular, to maximum effect.
