Mary Upton
Question:38 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she has plans to target farm families for increased support under the farm assist scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29355/04]
View answerWednesday, 15 December 2004
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Written answers
Farm assist is a means-tested scheme providing weekly income support to low income farmers. The assessment of means for the purpose of qualifying for farm assist is designed to reflect the actual net income, which is calculated as gross income less any expenses necessarily incurred, from farming. Income and expenditure figures for the preceding year are generally used as an indicator of the expected position in the following year. However, account is taken of any exceptional circumstances so as to ensure that the assessment accurately reflects the current situation.
For the purpose of determining the rate of farm assist payable, deductions are allowed from net income in respect of qualified children, with the balance is assessed at 70%. In this regard, the means test is more favourable than the scheme's predecessor, the unemployment assistance scheme for small-holders.
In addition, income from the rural environment protection scheme is assessed separately with the first €2,539 and 50% of the balance disregarded. Some 40% of net pay from insurable employment and almost €12,700 of capital are also disregarded.
Currently, almost 8,400 farm assist cases are in payment, receiving an average weekly payment of €145.15. Significant improvements were announced in budget 2005, which will benefit those on farm assist and other social welfare payments, from January 2005. These include a €14 weekly increase in farm assist for a single person, and up to €23.30 per week for a married person. In addition, the capital disregard in the means assessment will increase from under €12,700 to €20,000 from June 2005.