Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

236. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine with regard to the agri-environment options scheme, 9,500 farmers applied before the closing date of November 2012, the timeframe these applications will be finalised in view of the fact that already their incomes have been drastically reduced since the REP scheme plan finished; if it is now more vital than ever that these applicants become eligible for the AEOS 3 scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24758/13]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Despite 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.