Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 698: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food her views on the possibility of twice yearly payments of the single farm payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9577/07]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Under the provisions of Council Regulation 1782/2003 governing the implementation of the Single Payment Scheme it is laid down that payments shall be made once a year between 1st December and 30th June of the following year. In exceptional circumstances, where farmers face severe financial difficulties, the Commission may, taking account of the budgetary situation, authorise advance payments of up to 50% prior to 1 December. In 2006 the Commission, following representations from me, agreed to allow an advance payment of 50% on 16th October. Commencing on 1st December balancing payments were issued to farmers.

I have now approached the European Commission again seeking an amendment to the EU Regulations, which would provide for the full payment under the Single Payment Scheme from 16th October of each year.