Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On the BDGP, we are examining that at present but no decision has been reached on it yet. The Deputy labours under an illusion that there is an enormous, unspent pot of gold in the Department, but if there was, we would open it immediately. I hope there might be some room for manoeuvre but no decision has been made on it yet.

On Deputy Cahill's question, we tendered for the appointment of a consultant to design a scheme on the hen harrier. I am advised that a preferred consultant has been identified but the contract has not yet been signed. The principle is that when the contract is signed with the successful tenderer, they will design a scheme in conjunction with the Department and those who hold designated lands. It is envisaged that applicants will be invited into such a scheme in 2017 with payment in 2018.