asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the lack of clarity in advice given to farmers as to their eligibility for the special interest reduction scheme, he will pospone the closing date for applications to 15 July 1982.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Farmers' Interest Reduction Scheme.
44.
As already announced, I arranged with the lending institutions to defer from 15 June to 30 June the closing date under the reduced interest scheme for farmers in severe financial difficulty.
I know the precise question as I put it down and I know it is not as relevant now as it might have been. In dealing with late applications for the scheme, would the Minister consider the fact that there has been a certain amount of confusion among farmers, which is understandable, and people in lending institutions as to the criteria under which people qualify? Will he look at the latest date for application in a flexible way?
It was extended for a two-week period. I could take it up with the Department and if they considered the number of applications warranted it the possibility that it could be further extended could be given consideration.
Would the Minister make representations to the Government to restore the £2½ million which was taken away from the scheme?
That is nonsense. I answered that fully.
It is short £2½ million.
That is wrong.