Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:115 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will introduce measures of a financial nature to offset the serious crisis in agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19631/98]
Written Answers. - Agricultural Schemes.
I recently announced a series of measures to assist farmers. In addition to providing a £10 million package for certain farmers with winter fodder difficulties, I also announced that I had sought EU Commission approval to continue the sheep headage top-up equivalent to £2.75 million. The other measures taken include: speeding up direct payments to farmers; an increased advance on suckler cow and special beef payments from 60 per cent to 80 per cent — this will release an additional £45 million in November and December; more rapid payments of REPS where such payments are falling due; payment of outstanding BSE compensation top-ups of £6 million to certain beef producers in early October; arrangements for Teagasc to hold special free advisory clinics on fodder in the areas affected; promoting live exports and reopening trade with Libya and Iran; achieving a substantial increase in beef export refunds on 25 September — the increase is equivalent to 5p per lb. of beef; ensuring appropriate transport facilities are available for live exports, and private storage schemes for sheepmeat and pigmeat. In addition, agreement in principle has been reached with the European Commission to include 04 grades in the eligibility criteria for intervention.