Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Mar 2001

Vol. 533 No. 1

Written Answers. - Farm Retirement Scheme.

Willie Penrose

Question:

89 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if, in view of the new requirement in the farm retirement scheme (details supplied), he will outline the position of an applicant who would qualify in all respects for participation in the scheme, save for that provision in so far as the applicant had had to let his lands for the past three years due to a medical condition which rendered him unable to farm and compelled him to rent same; if, in view of the foregoing circumstances, he will be allowed to apply for this scheme under the force majeure condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8322/01]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

A prospective applicant who, for reasons beyond his or her control, cannot meet certain terms and conditions of the new scheme of early retirement from farming may seek to have them waived. Long-term incapacity is one of the grounds on which exemption may be sought.

A request for exemption should be made before an application is submitted. A prospective applicant seeking an exemption, or a professional adviser on his or her behalf, should make the request to my Department in writing. The request should describe the circumstances which gave rise to it, and should specify the terms and conditions of the scheme from which exemption is being sought. If long-term incapacity is the basis for the request, a detailed medical report should be submitted.