Agriculture Schemes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 April 2015

Wednesday, 22 April 2015

Questions (76)

Charlie McConalogue

Question:

76. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will ensure that farmers who have made applications to the national reserve will be corresponded with to provide them with an opportunity to provide his Department with any outstanding documentation or items not included or satisfactorily completed in their application; if he will ensure that incomplete applications are not automatically disqualified without providing the applicants with an opportunity to amend their application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15934/15]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

The National Reserve opened for applications under the two priority categories of Young Farmer and New Entrant on 5th January 2015 and the closing date for receipt of applications under these categories was 31st March 2015. Phase 2 of the National Reserve launched on 1st April and will have the same closing date as the Basic Payment Scheme. Applications under the National Reserve will be processed and assessed for eligibility by reference to the Scheme Terms and Conditions. Where outstanding documentation or further information in support of an application is required my Department will be in direct contact with applicants with a view to resolving any outstanding issues.