Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 April 2016
257. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the proposals or matters he is considering in regard to the basic payment scheme, whereby areas under golf courses are being excluded from the scheme, specifically in relation to a particular golf course (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5420/16]
View answerApplicants under the Basic Payment Scheme and other area-based schemes can claim aid on agricultural land which is owned, rented or leased, subject to such land meeting EU regulatory requirements and criteria detailed in the Basic Payment Scheme/Greening Payment and other 2016 Area Based Schemes Terms & Conditions document and the ‘Guide to Land Eligibility Direct Payments Schemes 2015’ document. Both documents set out in detail relevant issues on land eligibility, including that the land is in a state suitable for grazing or cultivation and that it does not include ineligible land & features.
The same Terms and Conditions specify that non-agricultural areas, such as golf courses, are not eligible for payment where there is an absence of agricultural activity, or where very low levels of agricultural activity are present. Based on inspections of this land by my officials in recent years there is sufficient evidence of agricultural activity to warrant payment under the Basic Payment Scheme. Notwithstanding this, all claimants must ensure that these practices continue and that sufficient deductions are made for non-agricultural areas.
