EU Directives.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 November 2009

Tuesday, 10 November 2009

Ceisteanna (348)

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

406 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 115 of 24 September 2009, the funding allocated by the European Commission to Ireland for landowner payments in respect of designated Natura 2000 sites up to 2007; the headings under which this funding was drawn down and the total under each category, based on an amount of €220 million for the 2007 to 2013, in view of the low drawdown to date in 2009 and the closure of the REP scheme programme to new entrants; the way he plans to ensure that the total moneys are allocated to Natura areas; if it is possible to utilise Natura payments on lands other than those designated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39973/09]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Brendan Smith)

Up to 2007 payments in respect of designated Natura sites were not separately identified but formed part of the overall REPS 3 Scheme in operation at that time. Under the Rural Development Programme 2007 — 2013 payments for designated Natura sites may be made to a beneficiary approved to participate in the Rural Environmental Protection Scheme (REPS 4) which was introduced in 2007. A person not wishing to join REPS 4 may seek funding under a scheme operated by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government which has responsibility for the designation and protection of these sites.

EU funding of €220m has been allocated to Natura payments over the lifetime of the Rural Development Programme. This must be matched by national funding at the rate of 45%. This is an indicative amount only however as take up of the support is voluntary and at the discretion of the farmer. In 2008 close on €8m was spent in respect of Natura 2000 sites under REPS 4 while it is estimated that a further €10m will be paid in respect of 2009 applications.

EU funds will continue to be expended on Natura sites for existing REPS 4 participants until the Programme comes to an end in 2013. In addition a Natura measure is planned as part of the proposed new agri environment scheme. Spending under Natura 2000 is monitored on a regular basis and re-allocation of these funds can be considered in the event of an under spend on this measure.