Vol. 573 No. 4
139 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the way in which he intends to reallocate staff in his Department as a result of the mid-term review agreement and the single farm payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25483/03]
The major changes resulting from the mid-term review will apply from 2005 onwards. This will involve significant changes in my Department's current operations and structures. Six major schemes, currently operated by my Department, that is, special beef premium, slaughter premium, suckler cow premium, ewe premium, extensification and arable aid schemes will be replaced. New processes will be in place to process the new single payment. In addition, compulsory cross-compliance measures for food safety, environmental standards, animal health and welfare etc. will be required.
Particular flexibility and commitment will be required from my staff from now to mid-2005 as during this period the current schemes must be operated as normal while the same staff will be involved in the advance preparations for the new procedures. The decision to proceed with full decoupling was made recently. In addition the detailed implementation rules and regulations have yet to be drafted by the European Commission. It is, therefore, too early to assess the final impact of the changes on the operations of my Department. However, it is clear the decision will lead to the reallocation of work and staff and will involve the redeployment of officers in my Department.
Question No. 140 answered with Question No. 124.
