Vol. 559 No. 2
68 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views on the poor uptake of the REP scheme; the steps he is taking to improve the uptake of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25774/02]
There are currently more than 37,000 farmers in REPS. During the FEOGA year that ended on 15 October 2002 my Department received 12,383 applications for REPS. This is one of the highest rates of application in any year since the scheme was first introduced in 1994. Under the new REPS, the average payment is €4,900 as compared to an average payment of €4,400 in the previous scheme.
With a view to maximising participation in REPS, I have recently announced a consultative process involving a wide range of stakeholders, out of which I hope to formulate proposals for revisions to the scheme that will be submitted to the European Commission during 2003. Full consultation and detailed preparation are necessary to ensure that any proposals that may be put to the Commission are robust and fully justifiable within the terms of the relevant EU regulations. The consultative process will cover all aspects of the scheme including payment rates.
I have also recently announced certain administrative changes to REPS, including a simplified plan format for more extensive farmers, access for planners to my Department's computerised mapping system, in respect of their clients land parcel information, and amendments to the rules on proof of title to land. These changes were designed to simplify aspects of the scheme and encourage take-up.
