Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 October 2004
15 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her plans to re-allocate staff within her Department as a result of the introduction of the single farm payment and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24456/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe implementation of the mid-term review of Agenda 2000 is the single biggest operational challenge facing my Department in the period ahead. It involves the discontinuance of the seven major livestock and arable aid schemes in operation and their replacement by a single payment scheme with effect from 1 January 2005.
To assist with the additional preparatory work linked to the introduction of the single payment regime, including applications for force majeure, new entrants to farming, new applications for area aid and decoupled dairy premia, a reprioritisation of work has been implemented. It should be noted that the existing premia will continue to be payable for 2004.
The single payment scheme will have a major impact on the work programme within the Department. The Department has established the strategy and implementation groups to plan for the smooth transition from the current area aid and premia schemes to the new single payment scheme. The implications for staff levels as well as their assignment and location will be considered as part of that process.
