Vol. 549 No. 3
143 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his proposals to introduce an incentive scheme for persons with arrears in Land Commission annuities to redeem their outstanding liabilities. [6475/02]
161 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his views on introducing a special buy out scheme for farmers who are paying annuities to the Land Commission; his further views on whether a buy out scheme would be beneficial to the Exchequer and to farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6777/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 143 and 161 together.
The introduction of measures such as an incentive scheme or special buy out scheme for farmers with current land purchase annuities is a matter that is reviewed from time to time. In carrying out such reviews particular attention is paid to the impact that such a scheme would have on the Exchequer and on farmers with current land purchase annuities. In the event of any such buy out schemes being introduced I must make it clear that it would only apply to farmers who have no arrears of payment due.
