Paul Bradford
Question:98 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will amend the conditions of the control of farmyard pollution grant scheme so that more applicants can qualify for grant aid. [23860/99]
Written Answers. - Control of Farm Pollution Scheme.
The national scheme for the control of farm pollution which was introduced on 28 June 1999 is a focused scheme designed to accommodate farmers operating small to medium scale enterprises. These farmers are deemed to be most in need of financial assistance for the provision of pollution control and waste management facilities on their farms. To date, 4,221 applications have been received in my Department under this scheme and 995 approvals to commence investment works have been issued. Significant funding is being provided under the national development plan for the period 2000-2006 to support agricultural development measures including investment in waste management, dairy hygiene and other programmes. This will facilitate investment in the construction of necessary works by eligible farmers who have not already received grant-aid to carry out such works.
The detailed terms and conditions of the new scheme are under consideration.