Vol. 500 No. 4
211 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the plans, if any, he has to make available the application forms for the recently announced new farm improvement and dairy hygiene schemes; the rate of grants available under these schemes; the total amount provided in 1999 for these grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4280/99]
224 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when the control of farmyard pollution control grants will be reintroduced; when the grants specifications will be available for applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4405/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 211 and 224 together.
An additional £25 million has been provided from the Exchequer in 1999 for the on-farm investment schemes which will enable the introduction of more focused schemes for the control of farm pollution and the improvement of dairy hygiene standards. Approval of the European Commission is required before the schemes can be introduced. The details of the schemes are currently being finalised and will be submitted to the Commission shortly.
