Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:230 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if the rate of early farm retirement pension will be increased in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26000/01]
Written Answers. - Farm Retirement Scheme.
The rate of pension payable under the 1994 early retirement scheme is the maximum provided for in the EU Council Regulation under which the scheme was introduced.
The rate of pension under the new scheme which commenced on 27 November 2000 is set down in the CAP rural development plan, 2000-06, following negotiations between my Department and the European Commission and I have no plans at present to seek the Commission's approval for a higher rate.