Tom Sheahan (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 314: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she will extend the deadline of 16 May 2008 for the submission of REP scheme four plans. [16186/08]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The arrangements for REPS 4 are derived from a new Commission Regulation. In discussions with the Commission, my officials secured a special transitional arrangement for farmers in REPS 2 finishing their contracts during 2008. As long as these farmers have submitted an application for REPS by the new closing date of 15 May this year, they can submit their farm plans after that date and still receive payment during the year. My officials sought a similar transitional arrangement for all farmers in 2008 but the Commission were not prepared to allow this. I believe that there is no prospect of securing any further concession.