Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 January 2013
891. Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when applicants will be notified on whether or not they have been accepted into the new agri environment options scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1439/13]
View answerApproximately 10,000 applications were received in my Department’s offices at Johnstown Castle by close of business on Friday December 7, the closing date for submission of applications under the agri-environment options scheme.
The processing of the applications is under way in the Department and I expect that the initial recording of application details will be completed shortly. At that stage, an acknowledgement letter will issue to all applicants. Following that the detailed actions listed in each application will be recorded and all applications will be ranked and selected according to the selection criteria set out in the Terms and Conditions. This process is expected to take about three months. Letters will issue to all applicants informing them of the outcome of the selection process.
Applicants should note that they should not undertake any actions listed in their application until approved for participation in the scheme as actions undertaken or expense incurred prior to formal approval will not be eligible for reimbursement.
