Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Nov 1999

Vol. 510 No. 3

Written Answers. - Rural Environment Protection Scheme.

Michael Moynihan

Question:

58 Mr. M. Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the research, if any, carried out to assess and quantify the benefits to the environment on a national level as a result of the REP scheme and from avoiding the excessive use of fertilisers and from better controls on farmyard pollution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22328/99]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

A comprehensive evaluation of the REP scheme was submitted to the European Commission in July 1999. Submissions were received from concerned organisations including the Heritage Council, Birdwatch Ireland, Teagasc and the farming organisations. Independent studies were commissioned on particular measures of the REP scheme under the auspices of Teagasc and the universities. Independent consultants were engaged to consider the various inputs to the evaluation process and to put together the comprehensive and objective assessment of REPS.

This evaluation assessed how the objectives of the scheme have been met, examined the agricultural, socio-economic and environmental impact of the REP scheme and provided practical recommendations for future modifications and improvements to the scheme.

Participants in REPS are required to follow a nutrient management plan which identifies pollution control facilities on the farm and ensures the efficient use of nutrients in an environmentally friendly manner and sets limits on application rates of fertilisers. The evaluation report found that nutrient management plans are contributing significantly to the REP scheme objective of reducing agriculture's contribution to environmental problems.

The control of farm pollution scheme was specifically examined by my Department's analysis and evaluation unit which was set up under the Operational Programme for Agriculture, Rural Development and Forestry 1994-99. The examination took place as part of an evaluation of the environmental effects of the OPARDF, which was completed in August of this year. This evaluation made a number of recommendations regarding improved farmyard pollution control which are presently being considered by my Department in the context of the schemes being drawn under the National Development Plan 2000-06.