asked the Minister for Agriculture why only a 4 per cent increase has been made in the provision for capital grants under the farm modernisation scheme over the amount spent in 1977; and if he will give a breakdown of the projected expenditure between the different categories of farmer and type of capital works.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Farm Modernisation Scheme.
28.
Expenditure under the scheme relates directly to the level of capital investment undertaken by farmers. The sum of £28 million provided for this year is in fact 14 per cent over actual expenditure under the scheme last year and it represents the estimated amount needed to meet payments arising in 1978. On the basis of recent trends, it is expected that commercial farmers will account for about 6 per cent of the 1978 expenditure, development farmers for about 40 per cent and the balance will go to other farmers. Farm buildings and other fixed assets are expected to account for about 70 per cent of grants for capital works, land improvement works for some 20 per cent to 25 per cent and the remainder of about 5 per cent will be absorbed by machinery and equipment.