John Perry
Question:118 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) will receive the 2001 suckler cow payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30201/03]
Written Answers. - Grant Payments.
The person named submitted an application in respect of 53 animals under the 2001 suckler cow premium scheme. Processing of this claim is suspended pending the completion of investigations into identification and registration issues in relation to bovine animals on the holding of the applicant. My Department has written to the person named in connection with this matter and awaits his reply.
Paul Connaughton
Question:119 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a suckler cow grant was not awarded in 2003 to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there was a genuine mistake when this application was not submitted in time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30203/03]
The person named applied for premium on four animals under the 2003 suckler cow premium scheme. The application was lodged on 23 July 2003. The closing date for receipt of applications was 27 June 2003. However, farmers could continue to apply, under penalty, up to 22 July 2003. According to the terms and conditions of the scheme any application received after the closing date, 27 June 2003 but before 23 July 2003 shall be reduced by a cumulative 1% for each working day the application is late. If any application is received on or after 23 July 2003, no premium grants claimed thereon shall be paid.
The herdowner has been informed that as his application was submitted on 23 July that no grants are payable. He has also been advised that if he wished to appeal this decision he could do so by writing to the district livestock office of my Department. No further correspondence has been received from him to date regarding this matter.