Paul Kehoe
Question:87 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his plans to redistribute staff at his Department following the implementation of the Fischler proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29254/03]
Written Answers. - Departmental Staff.
The major changes resulting from the mid-term review will apply from 2005 onwards. This will involve significant changes in my Department's current operations and structures. Six major schemes, currently operated by my Department, that is the special beef premium, slaughter premium, suckler cow premium, ewe premium and extensification and arable aid schemes will be replaced. New procedures will have to be put in place to process the new single payment. In addition compulsory cross-compliance measures for food safety, environmental standards, animal health and welfare, and so on will be required.
Particular flexibility and commitment will be required from my staff from now to mid-2005 as during this period the schemes must be operated as normal while the same staff will be involved in the advance preparations for new procedures.
In addition the detailed implementation rules and regulations have yet to be drafted by the European Commission. It is therefore too early to assess the final impact of the changes on the operations of my Department. However, it is clear that the decision will lead to the reallocation of work and staff which will involve the redeployment of officers in the Department as well as the possible transfer of staff to other Departments.
Question No. 88 answered with Question No. 76.