Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 28 Jan 1998

Vol. 486 No. 1

Written Answers. - Rural Environment Protection Scheme.

Michael Ring

Question:

454 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will confirm when the 89 farmers nationwide who have leased commonage in their REP scheme applications, 66 of whom are in County Mayo, will be paid; if he will further confirm the number who have been paid to date in 1998 on a county by county basis; and to confirm the length of time the issuing of payments will take. [1823/98]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh):

While general agreement was reached with a REPS planning agency in relation to the bulk of these cases some weeks ago, the making of payments can only follow the determination of entitlements with each applicant on a case by case basis. These arrangements are proceeding with a view to making payments at the earliest opportunity.