Seán Power
Question:154 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the changes, if any, he will make to the farm retirement scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23258/99]
Vol. 510 No. 6
154 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the changes, if any, he will make to the farm retirement scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23258/99]
The rural development regulation which was adopted by the Agriculture Council on 17 May this year as part of the Agenda 2000 Agreement provides for continued support for early retirement from farming. My Department is at present preparing an integrated rural development plan with a view to implementing the new regulation. The terms and conditions which will apply to the future early retirement scheme are being considered at present in the context of that plan.