Vol. 576 No. 5
203 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if outstanding area aid payments will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the delay in this case. [30036/03]
The person named is not the registered herdowner. He, though not the registered herdowner, submitted an application for premium on three animals under the 2003 suckler cow premium scheme on 16 July 2003. The closing date for receipt of applications was 27 June 2003 and according to the terms and conditions of the scheme any application received after that date but before 23 July 2003 shall be reduced by a cumulative 1% for each working day the application is late. The claim has been processed for payment of the 80% advance instalment subject to a 13% late application penalty.
The district livestock office of my Department has been informed that the registered herdowner is deceased. The office has been in contact with the person named regarding the procedure for change of ownership. Any outstanding payments including a payment due under the arable aid scheme cannot be released until probate is made available.
