Michael Ring
Question:157 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his plans to utilise fully the ?2 billion allocation to the REP scheme in the period 2000-2006. [18946/02]
Written Answers. - Rural Environment Protection Scheme.
I intend in the near future 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 is 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. This pro cess will cover all aspects of the scheme including payment rates. I am confident that if all parties approach this consultation process in a spirit of realism, a set of proposals will emerge that will maximise participation in REPS. I intend also in the near future to announce certain administrative changes to REPS designed to simplify aspects of the scheme and encourage take-up.