asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will consider extending the closing date for the qualification for the £22 EEC calf subsidy from Monday 20 June 1983 to mid-July; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Calf Subsidy.
17.
I have already extended the closing dates of all cattle schemes, including the EEC calf premium scheme to 30 June 1983.
A further extension of closing dates would unduly delay the commencement of inspections which have been brought forward this year at the request of the farming organisations.
May I take it, then, that the closing date for the calf scheme has been extended?
Yes.
What is the new date?
June 30.
I am glad that the Minister has been practical enough to do this instead of having the matter handled in the way it was handled last year.
How will the inspections be carried out this year having regard to the almost total failure last year in this respect?
The sheep inspections are in progress and we will be proceeding with the calf inspections.
Will the inspections involve a visit to each farm?
That is a separate question.
The scheme will operate as it has operated in the past.