Vol. 509 No. 1
167 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the reason a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath should sign a form IX to have his farm holding extended for REP scheme payments; if it is reasonable that this farmer should have to give an undertaking to abide by regulations not published or agreed; if this marks a new departure for his Department in these schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19813/99]
Transitional arrangements for agri-environment measures, affecting all member states, were introduced by the European Commission with effect from 30 July. These arrangements require applicants entering REPS from that date to give a commitment to take on the provisions of the new arrangements for REPS which are to be agreed under the rural development plan and programmes 2000-06. The form 1X to which the Deputy refers represents the commitment on the part of the applicant which is required by the Commission.
These transitional arrangements have given rise to problems for a number of member states including Ireland and they will again be discussed at an EU committee later this week.
168 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the reason persons (details supplied) in County Mayo had a reduction in their REP scheme payment in 1999; and the basis for this reduction. [19844/99]
The person named had his REPS payment reduced due to the fact that he over declared the area on his application for participation in REPS. The correct area has now been declared.
He had been paid for three years on the increased area and the reduction in this year's payment represents a clawback on the area over declared for three years plus interest.
169 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive a REP scheme payment. [19845/99]
This case was chosen at random for a compliance inspection. On inspection, an issue arose in relation to the separation of holdings. A report is currently being prepared.
No payment can issue until this matter has been satisfactorily resolved.
