Bernard J. Durkan
Question:131 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his plans or proposals for the development of hill sheep farming in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26138/02]
Written Answers. - Alternative Farm Enterprises.
Hill sheep farming is important to the economy of hill and upland communities as it is frequently the only viable system of farming possible on these holdings. In recognition of that, the report of the Sheep Forum recommended changes in production systems to enable closer matching of produce to consumer specifications. In particular, the forum identified issues of quality, timing and selection of product. These areas need to be addressed by producers on an ongoing basis to ensure the production of better quality hill lamb.
At EU level the sheepmeat regime recognises the disadvantage of the hill sheep sector through the payment of a supplementary premium of €7 per head, on top of the ewe premium. In addition, these producers also receive payments under the disadvantaged areas compensatory allowance scheme, which provides payment in respect of mountain type and lowland grazing in more severely and less severely handicapped areas. The scheme originally agreed in July 2000 was subsequently modified during 2002 to increase the rate payable on mountain type land, which resulted in an additional payment of over €16 million to approximately 29,000 farmers this year.
The rural environment protection scheme provides considerable financial incentive to flock owners to destock in order to regenerate designated degraded commonage areas, while farmers who are not in REPS can claim compensation for destocking commonages under an alternative scheme to be operated by Dúchas.
Spain, Italy and Portugal are our principal markets for light mountain lamb. This market has been mixed for the past couple of years and, as this situation is likely to continue, Bord Bia will continue to focus its activities on maintaining our existing markets and building new ones where possible.