Skip to main content
Normal View

Agri-Environment Options Scheme Applications

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2013

Wednesday, 6 March 2013

Questions (203)

Michael Creed

Question:

203. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of applications received to join the new agri-environment options scheme; the funding available for this scheme; the number of applications which meet each of the seven priority categories established under the application process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11869/13]

View answer

Written answers

Despite the challenging budgetary constraints facing my Department, last year I secured an additional €20 million annually to fund the Agri-Environment Options Scheme (AEOS) and on foot of this I announced the re-opening of the scheme. I decided on a maximum payment of €4,000 per annum for individual applicants which, on the basis of previous experience in implementing the scheme, indicated that up to 6,000 new participants could be accepted into the scheme. Approximately 9,500 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.

The initial processing of the applications has been completed and acknowledgement letters have issued to all applicants. The detailed actions listed in each application are currently being recorded and the admission of applicants will be determined by the following priority selection criteria:

- applicants within a targeted area of the Boora region of Co. Offaly who select Wild Bird Cover Option B (Grey Partridge) will get first access;

- applicants with eligible Natura land will get access next;

- applicants with at least 0.5 hectares of Utilisable Agricultural Non-Natura Commonage land rank next;

- farm partnerships;

- previous participation in REPS;

- farm size (gavouring smaller holding) based on the utilisable agricultural area;

- and location of farms in less favoured areas.

This process is expected to take a number of weeks yet. It is not possible at this stage to indicate the numbers of applicants that will qualify under the different priority categories. My priority is to complete the selection process as quickly as possible and to notify all applicants of the outcome and of the commencement dates under the scheme in the case of successful applicants. 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.

Top
Share