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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 24 Feb 1999

Vol. 501 No. 1

Written Answers. - Control of Farm Pollution Scheme.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

65 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason for the delay in the introduction of the control of farmyard pollution and dairy hygiene schemes; the qualifying criteria for eligibility to participate in the schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5265/99]

In recognition of the high priority which I attach to the schemes of grant aid for the control of farm pollution and for the improvement of dairy hygiene standards, an additional £25 million from the national Exchequer has been provided for the on-farm investment schemes in my Departments Estimates for 1999. This funding will allow for the introduction of nationally funded schemes for the control of farm pollution and the improvement of dairy hygiene in a more focused form, better targeted towards those farmers most in need of assistance. This is in line with the Government's commitment in An Action Programme for the Millennium.

My Department had discussions with the main farming organisations and examined their detailed follow-up written submissions to enable their views to be taken into account in the drawing up of the terms and conditions of the new schemes.

The terms of the new schemes, which are regarded as State aids, have been submitted for approval to the European Commission. This approval must be received before they can be implemented.

In this regard, I will be making every effort to secure the necessary approval at an early date.

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