Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 51: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position with regard to the processing of REP scheme four payments; the outcome of discussions he had with the European Commission with regard to changes to compliance measures or ineligible applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26006/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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Under EU rules, payments to REPS 4 participants may be made in two instalments, the first at 75% on completion of all administrative checks and area checks on all files and the remaining 25% once all on-farm inspections have been completed. Some 91% of those who applied for REPS 4 in 2007 and 2008 have received the first instalment and the remaining 25% will be issued as soon as possible. Arrangements are being made to ensure that, where possible, outstanding payments of the first instalment will also issue shortly. Payment of the first REPS 4 instalment for 2009 will be made in the autumn.

My officials have held discussions with the European Commission regarding the treatment of cases where eligibility issues have arisen and are awaiting the Commission's response in the matter. My officials are also in discussion with the farm bodies regarding the possibility of amending a farmer's obligations under the Scheme to reflect the withdrawal of the 17% increase in rates in REPS 4. Any such amendments will also require the approval of the European Commission.