Vol. 533 No. 5
46 Mr. Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the number of farmers expected to join the new REP scheme; the studies which have been carried out to assess and quantify the benefits to the environment arising from farmer participation in the REP scheme, specifically through following a prescribed farm nutrient plan and the control of on-farm pollution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9171/01]
The projected level of participation in REPS by the end of 2006 is 70,000. Participation in the existing scheme stands at 45,500. I am hopeful that the great majority of these farmers will continue their participation in REPS under the new scheme, and I expect that first-time entrants will bring the total to the level that I have indicated by 2006. A financial provision in excess of £1.6 billion has been made for REPS over that period.
A comprehensive evaluation of REPS was submitted to the European Commission in July 1999. This evaluation assessed how the objectives of the scheme had been met. It examined the agricultural, socio-economic and environmental impact of REPS, and it made practical recommendations for future modifications and improvements. Independent consultants were engaged for this exercise to consider the various inputs to the evaluation process and to put together a comprehensive and objective assessment. Submissions were received from concerned organisations, including the Heritage Council, BirdWatch Ireland, Teagasc and the farming organisations. Independent studies were also commissioned on particular measures of the REP scheme under the auspices of Teagasc and the universities.
Participants in REPS are required to follow a nutrient management plan which is drawn up for each farm. The plan identifies pollution control facilities on the farm, it ensures the efficient use of nutrients in an environmentally friendly manner, and it sets limits on application rates of fertilisers. The 1999 evaluation report found that nutrient management plans are contributing significantly to the REP scheme objective of reducing agriculture's contribution to environmental problems.
The control of farm pollution scheme was specifically examined by the independent analysis and evaluation unit which was set up under the Operational Programme for Agriculture, Rural Development and Forestry, 1994-99 – OPARDF. The examination took place as part of an evaluation of the environmental effects of the OPARDF, which was completed in August 1999. The evaluation found that the management of waste and pollution control facilities was of the utmost importance in preventing pollution and, as a consequence, in protecting the environment.
On 1 February, I launched the new scheme of investment aid for farm waste management, which is provided for in the national development plan. Under this new scheme, farmers will be eligible for grant aid of up to 40% on a maximum investment of £40,000, and it provides for additional assistance for younger farmers. Mobile slurry equipment is eligible for grant aid and this will allow farmers optimum flexibility in relation to the landspreading of farm wastes.
