Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2013
1191. Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding the payment of agri-environment options scheme in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37822/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe person named was approved for participation in the 2011 Agri-Environment Options Scheme with effect from the 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 9 May 2012. During this inspection, areas of non-compliance with the terms and condition of the scheme were noted in relation to the Planting of New Hedgerows and Riparian Margin 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. An appeal was received from the person named and it is currently being considered. The person named will be notified in writing of the outcome of this appeal once a decision has been made.
