Vol. 554 No. 5
243 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his plans to review and improve the REP scheme, to ensure that the farming industry obtains the maximum benefit from the scheme in view of present difficulties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15451/02]
The rural environment protection scheme, REPS, is one of the four measures included in Ireland's CAP Rural Development Plan 2000-2006 which was approved by the EU Commission. Any changes in those conditions of REPS that are included in the rural development plan would require formal amendments at EU level.
It is my intention shortly to put in motion a consultative process about REPS involving a wide range of stakeholders, leading into the mid-term review of the rural development plan in 2003. Full consultation and detailed preparation are necessary to ensure that any proposals that may be put to the EU Commission in 2003 are robust and fully justifiable within the terms of the relevant EU regulations.
