Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 June 2014
506. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will review and increase the income supplement for farmers who find themselves locked up long term by the district veterinary office in view of the additional financial costs incurred by farmers in this position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25424/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe primary compensation measure available under the TB Eradication scheme to herdowners, whose holdings are restricted due to TB and who have reactor animals removed, is the On Farm Market Valuation scheme. In 2013, my Department paid €10.5m to 3,376 herdowners under this Scheme. In addition, herdowners may also qualify for additional payments under the Income Supplement, Hardship or Depopulation Grant schemes subject to compliance with the criteria applying in each scheme.
Under the Income Supplement scheme, grants are payable in those cases where the breakdown results in the removal of more than 10% of animals from the herd, where depopulation is not deemed appropriate, subject to other qualification criteria being met. The rates payable range from €25.39 to €38.09 per month, per animal, depending on the type of animal removed. Payments are subject to a maximum of 100 animals qualifying for payment. Eligible herdowners continue to receive monthly payments throughout the breakdown period. Grants of €1.5m were paid to 934 herdowners under this scheme in 2013. I am satisfied that the current rates of the Income Supplement scheme are appropriate, particularly in prevailing budgetary circumstances.
