Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 279: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason, as of the end of 2004, only 27% of the forecasted agriculture and rural development measure of the BMW regional operational programme had been allocated; the measures she intends to take to rectify this underspend before the end of the NDP in 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20212/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The agricultural measures under the agriculture and rural development priority of the BMW regional operational programme are demand-led ones. Various factors such as the foot and mouth situation in 2001 have influenced demand and resultant expenditure. The measures' financial allocations and their eligibility conditions are kept under continuous review. In 2004, for example, improvements were made to grants available under the farm waste management and dairy hygiene schemes.

I will continue to keep the measures within my remit under review. Where deemed necessary and the budgetary situation allows it, further changes will be effected.