Vol. 538 No. 4
74 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the steps being taken to administer the backlog of inspections of grant applications caused by the foot and mouth restrictions, in particular the control of farmyard pollution and farm building extension schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18207/01]
The procedures for processing applications under the on-farm investment schemes, including the scheme of investment aid for farm waste management are in discussion with the union concerned. Applications will be processed and pre-approval inspections will be carried out as soon as the procedures are finally agreed.
Inspections on works approved under the national schemes for the control of farm pollution and the improvement of dairy hygiene standards and completed during the past four months are currently being carried out in all areas. However, with approximately 95 of the 135 technical agricultural officers attached to the local farm development services offices deployed on FMD duties at Border crossings and at the ports, this work is proceeding more slowly than normal. I am keeping the matter of inspections for the on-farm investment schemes under constant review.
