Brendan Smith
Question:219 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his proposals to increase the level of payment under the ewe premium scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29084/01]
Written Answers. - Grant Payments.
Nora Owen
Question:223 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will support the Irish Farmers Association's proposal for a fixed ewe premium of 32 per ewe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28534/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 219 and 223 together.
Throughout the discussions on the reform of the sheepmeat regime my aim has been to ensure that the best possible support system is put in place for Irish sheep producers. I have sought support for the fixed premium to be set at a level which ensures a reasonable income for sheep producers and bears some relationship with the premium payable in other sectors. I have also raised the question of the introduction of an extensification premium for sheep producers. I will be making our case on these issues once again at the meeting of the Agriculture Council on 20 November.