Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 192: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the amount spent to date on the agriculture and rural development measure of the national development plan; the amount estimated to be spent by the end of the NDP; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24617/07]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Of the projected spend of €8.7bn under the NDP for the period 2007-2013 my Department has spent close to €694m in the period January to September 2007.

The measures in the NDP are spread over four sub-programmes focused on:

Competitiveness (€1.7bn) — This will provide increased support for restructuring through improved rates under the early retirement and installation aid schemes. On-farm capital investment, training, advice, quality, breeding and establishment of energy crops will also be assisted.

Environment (€6bn) — The rural environment protection scheme and related support for Natura 2000 will account for some €3 billion. A 17% increase in rates and enhanced options will build on the scheme's already substantial positive contribution. There will be an 8% increase in disadvantaged areas scheme payments and a 15% increase in forestry premiums. Support will also be provided for animal welfare in the suckler herd and for the organic sector.

Food Industry (€289m) — This amount relates specifically to investment in capital infrastructure and marketing. The food industry will also benefit from general industry provisions elsewhere in the NDP and from the huge investment in transport and other infrastructure that is key to continuing competitiveness.

Agri-Food Research (€641m) — Actions under this sub-programme will provide scientific support to the sector. They will assist the generation of new knowledge and technologies that are critical to the growth of a market-orientated and sustainable industry.