Direct Payment Scheme Eligibility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 December 2015

Tuesday, 8 December 2015

Questions (281)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

281. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if controlled burning is an agricultural method that can be used to manage heather, given his Department's A Guide to Land Eligibility Direct Payment Schemes 2015, and to the top photo on page 9 in particular which shows heather that is eligible but where management is needed to ensure it remains eligible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44227/15]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

The applicant is required to maintain land as shown in the photograph referred to in an eligible state suitable for grazing or cultivation. It is a matter for the farmer to choose which option he or she wishes to employ to achieve this objective. Should the applicant so wish, he/she can consult a FÁS Adviser on an appropriate course of action to take to maintain it in an eligible state.