David Stanton
Question:112 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will allow area aid applications to be opened to new entrants all year round; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24318/98]
Written Answers - Area Aid Scheme.
Under EU regulations, member states are required to fix a closing date for Area Aid applications. This date was fixed at 15 May in 1998. The regulations further specify penalities for applications which are received after the closing date. It is not possible therefore to provide a year round application period for new entrants.