Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 10 Jun 2003

Vol. 568 No. 1

Written Answers. - Disadvantaged Areas Scheme.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

241 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of farm inspections under the good farming practice code already carried out to date on farms; the percentage of farms which will be included in such inspections for 2003; the headings under which the inspection will be reviewed; the penalties which will be applied if compliance is not up to standard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15467/03]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

A total of 17,027 good farming practice inspections were carried out in conjunction with scheme inspections under the 2002 disadvantaged area compensatory allowance and livestock premium schemes. It is estimated that a total of 18,500 good farming practice inspections will be carried out in conjunction with 2003 disadvantaged area compensatory allowance and livestock premium schemes inspections, of which 4,292 have been carried out to date.

Regulations require that a minimum of 10% of all applicants under the ewe premium scheme and a minimum of 5% of all applicants under the disadvantaged area compensatory allowance and livestock premium schemes must be inspected each year.

Checks at inspection are carried out under the following headings: nutrient management, pollution caused by waste, grassland management, protection of watercourses and wells, maintenance of wildlife habitats, maintenance of external farm boundaries, maintenance of appearance of farm and farmyard, maintenance of cattle and sheep registers/records, animal welfare and protection of features of historical and archaeological interest.

The penalties which will apply to the various schemes for the various offences are set out in a booklet entitled Good Farming Practice which issued to all registered herdowners in August- September 2001. A copy of this booklet will be sent to the Deputy for information.