Michael Healy-Rae
Question:408 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding the agri environment option scheme 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23795/12]
View answerTuesday, 15 May 2012
Questions (328)
Written answers
I am actively considering the possibility of re-opening the Agri-environmental Options Scheme to allow for the submission of applications either on an amended basis from the existing scheme and/or on a limited scale and, in particular, the possibility of re-opening for applications later in the year with a possible closing date for applications of end September and a commencement date for new participants of January 2013.
The full year cost of any new scheme will have to be met in 2013 and any decision to re-open AEOS will be taken in the context of the resources available and the need to remain within the agreed expenditure ceiling for my Department in 2013.