Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2013
175. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding an agri-environment option scheme payment in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21682/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe person named was approved for participation in the 2011 Agri-Environment Options Scheme with effect from 1 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, issues of non compliance with the terms and conditions of the scheme were noted in relation to the Tree Planting – Standard and Laying of Hedgerow actions, which resulted in a penalty being imposed. A letter issued to the person named informing him of this penalty and giving him the option to appeal the decision. No appeal has been received from the person named.
Officials in my Department are currently processing the application on this basis and payment in respect of the 2011 scheme year will issue shortly. Payments in respect of the 2012 Scheme year are subject to a similar administrative checking process which includes verification of capital investments through checks on receipts. These checks have now been completed and following the payment for 2011, the payment in respect of 2012 will be finalised.
