Simon Coveney
Ceist:22 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has sought a derogation on any penalty as a result of the overshoot of the maize base area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20700/02]
Written Answers. - Arable Area Aid.
The national base area for maize silage, under the arable area aid system, was exceeded this year for the first time since the introduction of the system in 1993. In such a situation, in accordance with EU legislation, the aid payable to maize growers must be reduced in proportion to the overshoot. There is no provision for a derogation from this rule in EU legislation and accordingly it is not open to member states to seek such a derogation.