Mary Wallace (Meath, Fianna Fail)

In 2006, 1,100 farmers received the 50% advance payment, although their cases are currently being queried, which is why they have not yet received the balance. In some cases, consolidation or stacking may have been involved and we just need the documentation.

If those about whom the Deputy is concerned have their documentation in order, they should furnish it. Some people have been genuinely delayed owing to inheritance issues and questions being dealt with by their solicitors such as family settlements. We must have the documentation, but we are absolutely sincere in saying to the Deputy that our doing so well regarding the payments has been a great success in European terms.

We strongly desire to reach the stage where we have dealt with 100% of payments and will be thrilled to assist farmers. We want to give them the money rather than hold on to it, but at the same time we must have documents such as the copy of the deed of transfer and the lease agreement. I hope the Deputy understands that with 50% of the necessary documentation absent and officials chasing it, we are doing our best and working very hard to ensure that we pay out. If we get the documentation from the farmers, particularly the small group outstanding for 2005, we will deal with their applications immediately.

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