Brendan Smith
Question:96 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development when the REP scheme will be re-introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21364/00]
Written Answers. - Rural Environment Protection Scheme.
Ireland's CAP rural development plan for the period 2000-06, which was submitted to the European Commission at the end of December 1999, has now been approved by the Commission. This plan covers REPS along with early retirement, compensatory allowances and forestry.
In accordance with the commitment entered into in the protocol on direct payments to farmers arising out of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness, my Department is having consultations with the farming organisations about the detailed provisions of the new scheme and the new specifications. Following these consultations the scheme document and specifications will be finalised, and the new scheme will be implemented at the earliest possible date.