Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 212: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the price increases imposed by his Department and its agencies for public services, products or taxes since 1 January to date in 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37685/08]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Since 1st January 2008, with the implementation of EU Regulation 882/2004, meat inspection fees have increased for the slaughter of cattle at an EU approved export premises to €5, an increase of €0.50 on the previous rate. In July of this year, approval was granted to Teagasc for a 4.4% increase for general advisory and education/training charges. In addition, a 15% increase in REPS charges was approved to take account of increased costs associated with the completion of REPS plans.

My Department also charges chemical companies for the registration of plant protection products. Last revised in 2003, these registration fees were reviewed and agreed with the Chemical Industry in 2007 with an effective date of 1st January 2008. On average these fees were increased by approximately 50% and I will arrange to forward the deputy a full list of these fees in the coming days.