Because of the large volume of applications under the scheme which were received in the closing months of 1999, there are 340 early retirement applications on hands at present. The applications on hands are being processed by local office staff in conjunction with other priority work.
My Department is making every effort to expedite the processing of these applications. I would point out that when the processing of an application is delayed in this way there is no financial loss to a retiring farmer. The operational procedures for the scheme specifically ensure that the date of receipt in the Department of a valid application determines the date from which payment is made.
Proposals for a new scheme of early retirement from farming were submitted to the European Commission in December 1999. These are still being considered by the commission and it is not possible to anticipate the detail of the operating rules which will apply.