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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 6 Dec 2001

Vol. 546 No. 1

Written Answers. - Roads Projects.

Willie Penrose

Question:

27 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the content of discussions he or his officials have held with the Irish Farmers Association in relation to the State's road building programme, particularly in relation to the issue of compensation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30156/01]

Discussions have been taking place between my Department and the IFA in the context of the commitment in the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness to the "fair and efficient implementation of compulsory purchase orders". These discussions have been wide-ranging and have covered matters such as CPO law and procedures, the desirability of an NRA code of practice, better liaison with farmers, fair compensation package including cost of land, disturbance, injurious affection, severance and earlier payment to farmers.

At a meeting on 28 November 2001 with the president and general secretary of the IFA I concluded a proposed final agreement aimed at resolving the issues around access to farmland for the national roads programme.

The NRA and local authorities, in return for co-operation from the IFA in allowing early and speedier access to land, will pay a premium of 5,000 per acre in addition to assessed compensation; assess the market value of land value by reference to the value of the actual land parcel on a stand alone basis rather than as part of the whole farm; provide replacement farm buildings and take over responsibility for fencing on all new national roads under the programme; pay compensation for damage and disturbance caused by site investigation works, including disturbance to livestock, crops, etc.; speed up administration of land acquisition with a view to earlier processing and payment of cases, with additional interest to be paid by local authorities – NRA where deadlines are not met; prepare a code of practice con taining guidance aimed at ensuring better liaison and communication with farmers affected; and facilitate liaison with farmers in relation to the new agreement and work with a joint committee, also comprising farming interests, to oversee its implementation.
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