Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 1020: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the assistance available for participants in the farm plan scheme for designated areas and commonages, if they are instructed to build a farm shed as part of their plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14796/07]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The National Parks and Wildlife Service Farm Plan Scheme for Designated Areas and Commonages provides for compensation to landowners or land users for actual losses of farming income that arise as a result of implementation of the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC), the Birds Directive (79/409/EEC) and the Commonage Framework Plans.

The annual compensation payment is based on a calculation of the income foregone (e.g. the loss of the gross margin on destocked animals or reduced forage yield due to restricted fertiliser usage) and/or the cost of meeting the requirements of the particular plan (e.g. the erection of fencing). For specified habitats or species, an area-based rate of payment may apply. In very exceptional circumstances, a lump sum may be payable for fixed capital expenditure, such as for the erection of animal housing, in circumstances where it may be necessary to exceed the standard required by Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition and Good Farming Practice.