Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 203: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food, further to Question No. 327 of 29 November 2005, her views on extending the provisions of the scheme, including the payment of compensation, to rams that were genotyped prior to 1 September 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6225/06]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The enhancements to the national genotyping programme, NGP, to which the Deputy refers, were aimed at encouraging greater participation in the programme. These enhancements were introduced following discussions between officials of my Department and representatives of the pedigree and non-pedigree breeders.

It was always intended, and it was made clear before their introduction, that the enhancements to the NGP would apply only in respect of those flocks and sheep that were genotyped between 1 September 2005 and 18 November 2005. There was never any question that rams which were tested before 1 September 2005 would be eligible for the flat rate of compensation that will be paid in respect of those categories of rams that are tested after that date and that are considered susceptible or highly susceptible to scrapie. Consequently, I do not intend to make the compensation payments retrospective.