Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 November 2010
11 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of applications pending for grant aid under the REP scheme to organic farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40643/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Organic Farming Scheme was introduced in 2007 to deliver enhanced environmental and animal welfare benefits and to promote organic production. Support for these objectives had been provided by way of supplementary measure under the Rural Environment Protection Scheme. A total of 365 applications were received in respect of the 2010 Organic Farming Scheme. This is in addition to the 488 participants in the scheme at the end of 2009. Following review at the end of 2009, the scheme was re-launched at the beginning of the year and included a new requirement that applicants had completed an approved training course before joining the scheme. All new applicants are also required to submit a detailed 5 year business plan.
The applications and business plans are currently being processed in the Department with a view to early decision on entry into the scheme. The Department will be in contact with the applicants in the near future and my intention is to ensure that all administrative checks are completed and that payments commence as quickly as possible.
