Billy Timmins
Ceist:68 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the situation with regard to REP scheme 3; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9261/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 24 March 2004
Ceisteanna (68)
Freagraí scríofa
My Department submitted proposals on REPS to the European Commission early in December 2003. Those proposals had emerged from a comprehensive consultative process involving the farming organisations and a wide range of other stakeholders, and they also reflected the significantly increased payment rates agreed in Sustaining Progress. My officials have since met the Commission services twice to progress the approval of the changes and remain in regular contact with them. I have both written and spoken to Commissioner Fischler to enlist his help in getting early approval for the new scheme, and I am confident of a favourable outcome.