Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 November 2012
275. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a person (details supplied) in County Sligo may expect their 2011 agri-environment option scheme payment to be finalised; the reason for the delay in processing and paying out the outstanding element of their application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49161/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe person named was approved for participation in the 2011 Agri-Environment Options Scheme with effect from the 1st September 2011.
Under the EU Regulations governing the Scheme and other area-based payment schemes, a comprehensive administrative check, including cross-checks with the Land Parcel Identification System, must be completed before any payment can issue. The person named was selected for a ground inspection which took place on 1 May 2012. During this inspection, areas of non-compliance with the terms and condition of the scheme were noted in relation to the Species Rich Grassland option which will result in a penalty being imposed. A letter issued to the person named outlining the nature of the penalty and the appeal options. To date, no appeal has been received by officials in my Department. Accordingly the application will be processed for payment as soon as possible.
