Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 235: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he proposes to restrict access for farmers to the REP scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45754/08]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The Programme for Government sets a target of 70,000 farmers in REPS. At present there are some 61,000 farmers involved,including 12,700 applicants for REPS 4. Notwithstanding the current budgetary difficulties, I have allocated an increased provision for REPS in 2009 of €355 million and I believe this demonstrates my commitment to the long-term future of REPS as a measure that has brought great benefits not only to farmers and the environment but also to the community as a whole. The 2009 allocation seeks to protect REPS, including the 17% increase in rates, and to ensure that it can continue to accommodate farmers wishing to join in 2009.