Michael Ring
Ceist:137 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his plans to increase staffing levels in the REP scheme section in Davitt House, Castlebar, County Mayo. [31649/01]
Written Answers. - Departmental Staff.
The volume of applications received under the REP scheme far exceeded the expected uptake and as a result a backlog has built up. The restrictions on farm vis its during the foot and mouth disease emergency also contributed to the backlog. At present the existing staff resources are working to their maximum capacity.
My Department reviews the allocation of staff on an ongoing basis with a view to ensuring that resources are used in the most efficient and effective manner to ensure that the best possible service is provided and, in particular, that applications are processed and grants paid with the minimum of delay. In the past year 12,011 applications have already been paid and a further 818 have been approved for payment.