Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 March 2011
82 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether the new agriculture environment options scheme is going ahead this year; and when is it envisaged it will be announced. [5628/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraI recognise the contribution that the Schemes operated by the Department make to farm incomes and particularly acknowledge the contribution of agri-environment schemes as an income support and a valuable policy measure to protect the environment. Following the implementation of the Agri Environment Options Scheme last year, my officials have carried out a review of the scheme and I am actively investigating the possibility of expanding the scheme. However the Government's National Recovery Plan sets out the expenditure ceilings for my Department for the period 2011 to 2014 and further participation in the scheme will have to be determined within the limits of the overall level of funding available to my Department. I will be making an announcement on the position for 2011 shortly.
