Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 3 Jul 2003

Vol. 570 No. 4

Written Answers. - Grant Payments.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

245 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if land returned at the end of the early retirement scheme, qualifies for full forestation premium; if this has been changed; if so, if this is not a breach of contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18930/03]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

An applicant who has received all the benefits of the Department of Agriculture and Food early retirement scheme would not subsequently qualify for the farmer rate of premium under my Departments afforestation grant and premium scheme. There has been no policy change in this regard.