Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 11 Jul 1990

Vol. 401 No. 5

Written Answers. - Grant Aid to Livestock Marts.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

69 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the fact that EC FEOGA Grant Aid to Livestock Marts has ceased; and that there is a total of £11 million yet to be invested in Irish Livestock Marts, if they are to attain European standards; if he intends to announce details of a new four year plan; and the percentage of grant aid which will be available and the purpose.

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. O'Kennedy)

It is not correct to state that EC FEOGA Grant Aid to Livestock Marts has ceased.

Investments in the construction, modernisation and expansion of livestock marts continue to be eligible for FEOGA grant aid under the existing sectoral plan until the end of 1990. A new four year plan for the sector is in the course of preparation in my Department. This plan, which will he submitted to the Commission later this year, must comply with the provisions of EC Regulation 866/90 which sets out the rules governing the new system for FEOGA grant aid, and with Commission Decision C(90)1086 of 7 June 1990 which sets out the eligibility criteria. The rates of grant to apply will be decided on in the context of the approval of the new plan.