Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 May 2013
557. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding the new agri-environment option scheme 3 nationally; the number of applications that have been received up to the end of December 2012; the number that were successful; when the successful applicants will be paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22923/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraDespite the challenging budgetary constraints facing my Department, last year I allocated €20 million annually to fund the agri-environment options scheme, AEOS, and on foot of this I announced the re-opening of the scheme. I decided on a maximum payment of €4,000 per annum for individual applicants which, on the basis of previous experience in implementing the scheme, indicates that approximately 6,000 new participants can be accepted into the scheme.
A total of 9,689 applications have been received by my Department and I expect that the letters approving participation will issue to the successful applicants very shortly. All applicants should note that they should not undertake any actions listed in their application until approved for participation in the scheme as actions undertaken or expense incurred prior to formal approval will not be eligible for reimbursement.
