Jimmy Deenihan
Question:111 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development when he will announce the new REPS programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16987/00]
Written Answers. - Rural Environment Protection Scheme.
The new REPS programme is included in Ireland's CAP rural development plan for the period, 2000-06. This plan, which also includes measures on early retirement, compensatory allowances and forestry, was submitted to the European Commission at the end of December 1999.
Negotiations with the Commission began in March and are now in their final stage. Following the completion of these negotiations a standard formal procedure for approval of all plans has to take place and by its nature this exercise involves a considerable amount of detail and documentation. It is my objective to ensure approval is forthcoming in the shortest possible time but it is too early at this stage to give any concrete dates for the likely commencement of the new REPS.