Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2017
1389. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if Ireland has applied to the European Commission to increase the level of advance payments from 16 October 2017 to farmers affected by difficult climatic conditions (details supplied); and if no application has been made, the reason therefore. [38605/17]
View answerGiven the important role that the Basic Payment Scheme plays in supporting the farming sector, I have applied to the EU Commission to increase the level of advance payment to 70%. The normal rate of advance payment allowable under the relevant EU regulations is 50%. I have asked my officials to consult with the EU Commission in relation to the formal approval of this application.
