Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 15 May 2001

Vol. 536 No. 2

Written Answers - Grant Payments.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

225 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if, further to Parliamentary Question No. 154 of 2 May 2001, he will arrange an early appraisal and resolution of this case; if his attention has been drawn to the co-operative and diligent approach adopted by the person in this case and by his solicitor and to the hardship which arises in this case; if his attention has further been drawn to the broader implications of this case for disease detection and eradication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13732/01]

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

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 154 of 2 May 2001. This matter is still under investigation and it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this stage. However, my Department is making every effort to have the investigation expedited.

Michael Ring

Question:

226 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development when a REP scheme appeal by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be finalised. [13733/01]

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

Penalties amounting to 110% of his annual payment were imposed on the person named following a compliance inspection. He lodged an appeal against these penalties with my Department's REPS appeals committee in January 2001.

The appeals process involves a further inspection of the holding and a report to the committee. The restrictions on farm visits because of the foot and mouth disease emergency have delayed such inspection. Farm visits have now been resumed and the inspection in this case will take place as soon as possible.

When the inspection has taken place and a report on the case is received, the entire matter will be fully considered by the appeals committee. When the committee has taken its decision the person named will be notified immediately.