Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

This year I provided €30 million for the scheme. Naturally, applications are slow in the context of the changes that arise from the nitrates directive. Under Sustaining Progress, we increased grant aid from 20% to 40%, which is substantial. We carried out an audit under Teagasc of what is available in the country at present. Under any agreement that is reached there will be a financial imposition on some farmers. As it stands, this is the case in the Deputy's constituency. We are evaluating that and examining the cost implications. I have €30 million this year for the farm waste management scheme.

There is an issue with the 20 livestock units, particularly for part-time farmers and small farm enterprises. The Commission has opposed the concept of anything less than 20 livestock units. I do not agree with that view but the Commission believes that fewer than 25 is not viable. I will evaluate and ascertain, in the context of the changes that have taken place, the implications for those with fewer than 20 livestock units and what can be done to support them following whatever decision is made on the nitrates directive. I cannot give a commitment now as to what will be available. People have anticipations and others have made recommendations but until I know the full implications of it, I will not be in a position to ascertain how the scheme will look.

See this speech in context