Michael Bell
Ceist:27 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason there is no EU payment premium for beef breed heifers in view of their importance in quality assurance schemes. [15490/97]
Written Answers. - Grant Payments.
In the beef sector premia are paid on suckler cows and male cattle. These premia are intended to compensate beef producers for the effects of a reduced level of market support for all categories of cattle, including heifers. They are not in any way related to eligibility for national beef quality assurance schemes.
It should be noted that the exclusion of heifers from the premium system means that they are not counted in the calculation of stocking density on premium payments. This reduces the impact of the stocking density limit on well stocked farms and facilities qualification for the extensification premium. In addition, in view of EU budgetary constraints, the inclusion of heifers in the premium system would almost certainly result in a reduction in the rates of premium payable on suckler cows and male cattle.
Pat Rabbitte
Ceist:28 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when it is intended to establish the independent agency to administer FEOGA payments and other payments to farmers as promised in An Action Programme for the Millennium; if the agency will be statutory-based; its terms of reference; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15398/97]
The Action Programme for the Millennium commits the Government to the establishment of an independent agency to administer FEOGA and other payments such as premia to farmers.
I am at present preparing, for early submission to Government, proposals for the setting up of the agency. I hope to be in a position to proceed with the establishment of the agency within a period of weeks.