Eamon Scanlon (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fianna Fail)
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Question 397: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the land required by persons applying for the rural social scheme; if it is necessary for them to be in receipt of single farm payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35422/08]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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One of the eligibility criteria for farmers wishing to participate on the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) is that they are actively farming. In order to satisfy that condition farmers wishing to participate in the scheme must occupy and farm in their own right and at their own risk, a minimum of 1 Hectare of land within the State, which is used solely for the purposes of carrying out an agricultural activity. This is in line with guidelines issued by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

An RSS participant is not required to be in receipt of a Single Farm Payment. However, according to EU regulation (REG No. 183/2005) those involved in farming activities are required to make a declaration under the Single Farm Payment Scheme annually. A copy of the Single Payment Scheme Application together with official proof of postage is one of the documents acceptable in order to demonstrate that a farmer is actively farming for the purposes of the RSS.

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 398: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when funds will be approved for counties Carlow and Kilkenny under the rural development strategy. [35529/08]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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The process for selecting Local Action Groups to deliver the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme is now almost complete. I expect to announce the selection of the Groups to implement the Programme and the allocation of funding in the near future. I anticipate that the Programme will be open to applications to the Local Action Groups for funding in all areas of the country shortly thereafter.