Ivan Yates
Ceist:105 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a 1998 ewe premium payment will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if he will clarify his entitlements for the 1998 scheme. [14748/98]
Written Answers. - Grant Payments.
Following an inspection of the flock of the person named he was deemed ineligible for payment under the terms and conditions of the 1998 ewe premium scheme. He was notified of this decision in writing and under the charter of rights for farmers he was advised that he could have his case reviewed by submitting a written appeal within 21 days. No record of an appeal has been received by my Department. However, if he wishes to have his case reviewed he should contact his local office for an application form and submit it without further delay.
Michael Creed
Ceist:106 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the consideration, if any, given in his Department to the payment of a flat rate of ewe premium. [14749/98]
The current method of assessing the amount of the annual ewe premium is based on a deficiency payment system. Regulation 3013/89 provides for the payment of a premium to bridge the gap between the average EU sheepmeat price and a fixed basic price. A flat rate premium, unlike the current deficiency payment system might seem reasonable in a year when the market price is relatively good, but could fail to compensate producers during a period when prices were poor.