Vol. 527 No. 3
138 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will increase the rate of installation aid in line with the cost to the Exchequer of putting a student through third level education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28187/00]
Under the National Development Plan, 2000-2006, provision is made for a new enhanced scheme of installation aid which provides for an increase in the premium payable to £7,500. This level of aid is considered adequate and it encompasses a 34% increase on the premium value as paid under the current scheme now concluding. There are no plans to further increase the premium payable under the scheme which has already been submitted to the European Commission for approval. The Commission's approval when received will allow commencement of the scheme.
139 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will introduce the second phase of the installation aid scheme in line with EU regulations, which provides for an interest subsidy on farm development loans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28188/00]
There are no plans to include provision for an interest subsidy payment under the new scheme of installation aid which has earlier been submitted to the European Commission. Approval for the scheme is awaited and this will allow the commencement of the scheme early in the new year.
