Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

The modulated funds become available for use in 2006. I will decide on their use and seek the necessary EU approval in the coming months. My Department is finalising its examination of the relevant options. As part of that examination there has been a widespread public consultation and discussions with stakeholders. The use of modulated funds in 2006 is limited to certain measures. The eligible measures are contained in the Common Agricultural Policy rural development plan, including agri-environment, early retirement, compensatory allowances and forestry, and the new initiatives introduced as part of the CAP mid-term review are food quality, animal welfare, farm advisory services and meeting standards. My decision on the use of the funds will be informed by the terms and conditions of those measures.

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