Farm Retirement Scheme.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 May 2005

Thursday, 5 May 2005

Ceisteanna (243)

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

243 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if farmers who have their land committed to the retirement pension scheme will be allowed to plant their land on cessation of the scheme in view of the fact that the owners are now retired farmers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14780/05]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

There is no prohibition on retired farmers planting their land once their period in the early retirement scheme has ended. However, as retired farmers, they do not qualify for the higher rate of forestry premium payable to active farmers.