Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 403: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the changes which will be made to compliance measures under the REP scheme following the 17% reduction in payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18864/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The withdrawal of the 17% increase in REPS 4 rates of payments was a necessary response to the pressures on the public finances and the number of applications for REPS 4 expected by the closing date of 15 May.

The undertakings in the REPS 4 Scheme have been agreed with the European Commission and any changes to such undertakings can be introduced only with the approval of the Commission. I have indicated my willingness to examine the situation and to raise the matter with the Commission. In that context, my officials will discuss the issue with the farming organisations and I understand that the first of such meetings will take place later this week.