Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 December 2004
255 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of her officials who carried out on farm inspections in 2004; the projected numbers for 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33101/04]
View answerI understand the Deputy is referring to the EU direct payment, REPS and the on-farm investment schemes. In 2004, 446 inspectors have been involved in on-farm inspections. It is not envisaged there will be any significant change in 2005 in the numbers of such personnel, although the nature of this work will naturally be affected by the single payment scheme and the simplified procedures which its application will involve. The situation after 2005 will be kept under review in the light of precise inspection requirements.
