Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 2 Feb 2000

Vol. 513 No. 4

Written Answers. - Land Commission Annuities.

Denis Naughten

Question:

130 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the plans, if any, he has to reduce Land Commission annuities paid by farmers in view of the current down turn within the agriculture sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2774/00]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development

(Mr. Walsh): I have no proposals to reduce land commission annuities.

I can, however, inform the Deputy that inspectors from my Department have been and still are visiting farmers who have arrears of £2,000 and over with a view to assessing the reasons for non-payment. If it is found that the annuity is excessive relative to the earning capacity of the farm and the family circumstances, it is intended to capitalise the arrears and to reduce the repayments to a more reasonable level which will result in an extension of the repayment period. On the other hand if it is found that there is no good reason for non-payment of annuities my Department will have to consider taking legal action in the matter.