I propose to take Questions Nos. 226, 227 and 229 together.
The Programme for Government commits to rewarding farmers for adapting to more sustainable methods of farming and to the development of a new agri-environment scheme capable of delivering broad environmental and biodiversity benefits that will align financial supports with climate objectives. To advance this aim the Results- Based Environmental Agri Pilot Project (REAP) is being launched this week.
The aim of this pilot project is to identify a suitable agri-environment results based scoring system and to trial this system at a national level with a view to identifying up scaling potential for possible inclusion in the next national agri-environment scheme. Under the results-based model, farm holdings with the highest scoring receive the greatest payment. By linking payments to defined indicators the results-based model creates a financial incentive linked with outcomes for participating farmers. The model also makes it worthwhile for participants to gain an understanding of the conditions required for the delivery of optimum biodiversity and environmental benefits.
REAP will be funded under the technical assistance measure of the rural development programme and is subject to EU Commission approval of the 10th amendment to the RDP.
There will be no limit on the number of applications that each agricultural planner can submit for the REAP Project. Full details of the project including terms and conditions and specifications are available on the Department's section of the government website.