Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 242: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a derogation will be granted to persons (details supplied) in County Clare not to have to keep their own cattle on The Burren in County Clare as part of a REP scheme; her views on whether these persons are farming to a very high REP scheme standard and that a neighbouring farmer could provide the necessary livestock to meet REP scheme II requirements; the conditions which must apply to enable the outstanding unpaid REP scheme grants over the past two years to be awarded; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14779/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The persons named have already been given such a derogation twice and are coming towards the end of the third year of their REPS contract. It is a fundamental requirement of REPS that the livestock on a holding be owned by the participant. The matter has already been examined by the independent Agriculture Appeals Office and my Department's position was upheld.

Senior officials of my Department, at their request, met one of the named persons recently and explained the requirements of the scheme. They have been asked to consider with their planner the options proposed by my officials and to respond as soon as possible. Compliance with the conditions of the scheme will enable them to keep the payments they have already received and claim further payments.