Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 November 2017
74. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans for the additional €25 million of ANC funding; the way in which it will be allocated; and the rationale behind the allocation. [46938/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Areas of Natural Constraint (ANC) Scheme is a very important source of financial support for farmers across the country, paying over €200 million each year to over 95,000 farmers. In view of this, the Programme for a Partnership Government included a commitment for a €25 million increase in funding for the Scheme in 2018. I am happy to confirm that this commitment was delivered in the recent budget.
There are a number of options in relation to how this additional €25 million can be allocated in 2018. These options are currently being examined, with a view to being in place for payment under the 2018 Scheme. Changes to payments under the scheme will require formal agreement with the EU Commission via a formal amendment of the Rural Development Programme, 2014-2020.
The 2017 ANC payments commenced on 19th September and to date over €187 million has been paid to some 87,000 farmers. Payments are continuing on a rolling basis as more farmers satisfy eligibility and stocking rate requirements.
I am pleased to note that 2017 payments are ahead of where they were this time last year.
