Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 407: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the minimum and maximum number of questions that a farmer applying for the single direct payment answers on an annual basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13586/07]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The position is that all farmers applying for the Single Payment Scheme must complete an application form. These forms are preprinted using information from the previous year's application. Farmers need only amend the application form where necessary to reflect any changes in their situation from the previous year.

The position in relation to the inspections is that the inspection checklist on cross-compliance is not a document for completion by the farmer but is an internal document to be completed by the official carrying out the inspection. The checklist is currently being reviewed by my Department with a view to simplification where possible while, at the same time, ensuring compliance with the EU regulatory requirements. The results of the review will be discussed with the farming organisations in advance of commencement of this year's inspections.