Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 May 1999

Vol. 504 No. 2

Written Answers. - Grant Payments.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

160 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the commencement date for the payment to farmers of outstanding premia under the 1998 special beef premium, extensification premium and suckler cow premium; and when these payments will be completed. [11651/99]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh):

Under the regulations, payment under the October suckler cow premium scheme cannot commence until the six month retention period has expired and all other office checks are completed. It is expected that payment under the October 1998 suckler cow premium scheme will commence in early May.

Payment of the balances of the 1998 special beef premium scheme will commence this month when the extent to which the national quota has been exceeded is finalised.

In accordance with the regulations, extensification premium is payable on all animals eligible for payment under the suckler cow premium and special beef premium schemes if the stocking density of a holding is less than 1.4 LUs/Hectare. Payments will be made in June.