Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I wish to ask a straight question in regard to the rural social scheme. Is a person with a herd number eligible for the rural social scheme? Has the Department changed the criteria in respect of the scheme? Those in receipt of the rural social scheme received a letter today in which they were asked to give evidence that they are actively farming. If there are changes in regard to eligibility for the scheme will the Minister please outline them to the House?

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