Detailed rules for the implementation of the Rural Environment Protection Scheme, which is a measure under the 2007-2013 Rural Development Programme, are set out in Commission Regulations 1974 and 1975 of 2006. The framework for the implementation of these rules is set out in a document titled Terms and Conditions of the Rural Environment Protection Scheme and the Natura 2000 Scheme as required under Council Regulation 1698 of 2005. The eligibility criteria for admission to the scheme and the annual requirements to remain in the scheme are also set out in this document.
All applications for admission to the Scheme and subsequent payment claims are subject to administrative checks and any other controls deemed necessary. Applications have been cross-checked with records held under the Department's Single Payments System and Animal Identification and Movement System. Prepayment checks and on-farm inspections are carried out annually.
Where an applicant knowingly makes false or misleading statements or withholds essential information in support of any claim for payment, their participation in the scheme may be terminated and all or part of any aid already paid must be returned.
My Department has no evidence of any widespread breaches of land-ownership requirements under the Scheme and is not carrying out formal investigations in this area at this point in time. However, if such information exists, my Department would be glad to receive further details.
