Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

I thank Senator Brian Ó Domhnaill for raising this issue which is urgent in the context of the closing date. REPS is regarded as one of the most successful farming schemes we have ever operated. Since it was first introduced in 1994, it has delivered significant payments to farmers, but it is about much more than money. It is a scheme that has brought many benefits to the environment and to society as a whole. It enables farmers to remain viable while farming in ways that are compatible with protecting and improving the environment, safeguarding biodiversity and contributing to better water quality.

With natural resources under ever increasing pressure, the scheme and in particular the introduction of REPS 4, is more pertinent than ever in meeting the new challenges we face. I am glad so many farmers have seen fit to join the scheme.

The arrangements for joining REPS 4 are derived from Commission regulations that reflect the Commission's objective of integrating and harmonising the operation of the various farm payment schemes, including the single payment scheme, REPS and the disadvantaged areas scheme.

For REPS 4, this means that applications to join the scheme must be submitted by 15 May each year. Any application to join REPS 4 submitted after May 15 cannot be considered for payment in the same calendar year and there is no possibility of providing an extension to this closing date. We have already had indications from the Commission that any such extension would not be granted and that the closing date must be strictly observed. It is important to re-emphasise that the Commission has stated there can be no extension in this context. Therefore we are urging all those who are interested to have their applications in by the deadline.

Given that REPS is an EU co-funded scheme, it is important that Ireland complies with all regulatory requirements, including closing dates, in order that funding is not compromised.

It is open to all farmers to apply to join REPS 4. Existing REPS 3 farmers can either see out their five-year contract and then move over to REPS 4 or, alternatively, they can transform from REPS 3 to REPS 4 at the anniversary date. It is worth noting that Ireland secured a significant transitional arrangement for 2008 for REPS 3 farmers without which they would not have been able to join REPS 4 until 2009.

The latest date for receipt of an application and accompanying REPS plan is Friday, 15 May, just one week away, to qualify for REPS 4 payment in the same calendar year. The situation is very clear and, unfortunately, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has little leeway in this matter.

The Government has provided €330 million for REPS in the current year, despite the economic circumstances and the difficult position in the public finances. There can be no question therefore about the Minister's commitment to the scheme on an ongoing basis. However, the situation remains that applications to join REPS 4 in the current year, whether a transforming REPS 3 farmer or otherwise, must be received by 15 May 2009.

As I said earlier, the Commission has already emphasised there can be no leeway whatsoever in the context of the closing date.