Robert Molloy
Ceist:174 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the proposals, if any, he has in relation to the environmentally sensitive areas scheme; and when the proposals, if any, will come into operation.
Written Answers. - Environmentally Sensitive Areas Scheme.
Under the agri-environment measure accompanying Common Agricultural Policy reform, each member state must introduce a programme to assist farmers who manage their land in an environmentally friendly way. The programme is a voluntary one for farmers.
My Department is preparing a draft scheme to give effect to this programme which I hope to submit by early summer for approval to the EC Commission. The various interests such as farm organisations and An Taisce are being consulted in the matter.
I expect that the two current pilot ESA schemes will be subsumed by the new scheme upon its introduction towards the end of this year.