Vol. 524 No. 6
122 Mr. D. Carey asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the plans he has to institute a capital grants scheme for the construction and refurbishment of small abattoirs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23273/00]
185 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the grant assistance that is available to upgrade abattoirs to help them adhere to regulations as set down by the Abattoirs Act, 1998; and the plans he has to increase aid for this purpose. [23512/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 122 and 185 together.
I do not have any proposals to introduce a capital grants scheme for the construction and-or refurbishment of small abattoirs.
Current EU guidelines on payment of state aid preclude member states from providing financial assistance to abattoir operators for the purpose of bringing their premises up to the minimum standards required by EU and national legislation.
Question No. 123 withdrawn.
