asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason smallholders in receipt of unemployment assistance are refused participation in the free food scheme this year.
Written Answers. - Free Food Scheme.
79.
This year I succeeded in obtaining an increased allocation of intervention beef from the EC for distribution to the most needy welfare categories. As a result it has been possible to extend the scheme substantially and some 120,000 people benefit under the 1989 arrangements compared with less than 50,000 in 1988.
The quantity of beef available is strictly limited making it necessary to identify specific beneficiaries. In consultation with the Department of Social Welfare those on long term unemployment assistance were identified as the welfare category in greatest need. Small farmers, being landholders, have certain resources placing them in a different category from the long term unemployed on the live register.
The conditions of the free beef scheme, including the matter of eligibility, are reviewed each year. For 1990 I will, of course, be seeking to extend the scheme even further. The increase in the numbers eligible for this year's free beef scheme indicates the Government's clear commitment to expand the scheme to the maximum possible extent.