Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 May 1999

Vol. 505 No. 3

Written Answers. - Farm Retirement Scheme.

Paul McGrath

Question:

95 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has discussed with the EU Commissioner for Agriculture the fact that Irish farmers in receipt of pension under the farm retirement scheme through his Department have had their total income capped despite increases in their pensions from the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs; if he will ensure that the present income cap is lifted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13657/99]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

Under the terms of the regulation governing the scheme of early retirement from farming all national pensions must be deducted from the pension paid under that scheme.

My Department has discussed this matter at some length with the European Commission who have made it clear that the deduction of national pensions has universal application across EU member states implementing the early retirement measure.