Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

Deputy Sherlock is quite correct. The 50% maximum limit for grant aid continues but the level of grant aid is based on the establishment cost which is now estimated, under Teagasc figures, at €1,300 per hectare for the 50%.

The new scheme also has a number of new provisions in that unlike previous situations, it is not administered on a first-come, first-served basis; a number of criteria are attached. Deputy Sherlock is quite correct. In effect, the biggest difficulty facing people planning to grow miscanthus is the cost of the plant for establishment. It is particularly high because the level of take-up is relatively low here and the absolute imperative. in circumstances where we are not in a position to increase the grant above 50%, is to work to reduce the costs involved.

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