Vol. 483 No. 6
339 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the system, if any, she intends to operate regarding compensation to be paid to farmers arising from the implementation of special areas of conservation; if she will provide a clear and understandable information leaflet in this regard; if she will ensure full consultation with all organisations and individuals involved in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21331/97]
Compensation arrangements for landowners affected by proposed SAC designations were agreed following extensive consultations between my Department, the Department of Agriculture and Food, and the farming organisations. The details are as follows:
Option 1
Landowners may join the rural environment protection scheme administered by the Department of Agriculture and Food, under which those with land in SACs will be eligible for top-ups on existing payment rates in return for complying with SAC conservation conditions. This will involve amendments to the existing REPS scheme and is subject to approval from the European Commission.
Option 2
Landowners may quantify any financial losses that will result from complying with the SAC conservation conditions laid down by my Department and claim from my Department for such losses. Where agreement is not reached on the amount payable, independent arbitration will be available.
An information note regarding compensation, which was sent by my Department to all those thought to own or use land in proposed SACs, is available from the National Parks and Wildlife Service and I am forwarding a copy to the Deputy for his information.
