Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for his reply. There are two issues at stake, which run parallel to each other. The first is the revised pay arrangements and the second is the deadline of 15 May. Will the Minister of State confirm that it is the Department's policy to facilitate the maximum take-up of REPS 4. If that is the case, does he not agree that — this is the view of Teagasc advisers and independent consultants — the 15 May deadline by which forms must be completed will be extremely difficult to meet, particularly in light of the volume of applications to be processed? This deadline coincides with that relating to single farm payments applications, etc.

Will the Minister of State consider using a device previously employed by the Department in respect of the farm waste management scheme, namely, the expression of interest form? Such forms could be submitted by 15 May and completed applications could then be submitted by mid-September. This would facilitate a much greater take-up of REPS 4. This package has a potential worth of €70 million to agriculture in this country. Will the Minister of State consider implementing the proposal I have put forward in order to maximise participation in the scheme?

I am appalled that the Department was involved in deception during its promotion of REPS 4 throughout the country, particularly when it was fully aware that revised payment arrangements were on the way. It did not advise farmers of this fact and encouraged them to transfer from REPS 3 to REPS 4. The Department also encouraged new entrants to become involved in REPS 4 but did not inform them that the payments would be back-loaded rather than front-loaded. This will cause severe difficulties for farmers who have obligations to meet in respect of their plans. Will the Minister of State indicate whether this matter has been decided upon and that there is no possible way for it to be addressed at EU level? Will he say whether he has failed in this regard?

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