Vol. 501 No. 4
66 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the reason there is a serious delay with the payment of forest premia; the reason staff in Johnstown Castle can give no information in relation to payment date; when the serious problem will be resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6316/99]
My Department is changing the arrangements under which forestry premia were paid throughout the year to a system where all payments will be made early in the year. With the assistance of temporary staff, the forest service database is currently being updated to facilitate the new payment arrangements. In addition, the consequences of the £/euro exchange rate have to be taken into account.
I expect that payment of the premia will commence shortly.
