The number of applications that have been processed and paid, the number of applications awaiting processing and the average processing time for applications as at 30 September 1999 for each county are as set out in the following table. While every effort is made to ensure that all applications are dealt with in a timely manner, the number of applications varies from one area to another and factors such as human resources and other pressing demands on the relevant staff can result in variations in processing time.
Regarding the number of staff involved in the processing of early retirement applications, there are 39 RDE inspectors located throughout the country. These RDE inspectors are also involved in the processing of REPS and young farmer installation aid applications, along with the Leader Programme. In addition, the seven regional inspectors are also involved in the processing of early retirement applications.