Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 74: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of farmers who may qualify for farm assist payments following the closure of the REP scheme four; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40643/09]

Shane McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Question 115: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the discussions that have taken place between her and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food following the closure of the REP scheme four; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40642/09]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 74 and 115 together.

The Rural Environment Protection Scheme, REPS 4, was closed to new entrants in July of this year. However, under the Rural Development Programme, a new agri-environment measure will be introduced and individuals who have been affected by the closure of REPS 4 can apply for this new scheme. On this basis, estimation of the number of farmers who may apply to social welfare schemes as a result of the REPS 4 closure is not possible at this time.

Officials from the Department of Social and Family Affairs are in ongoing contact with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in relation to these developments.

In addition, the programme for government contains a commitment to continue to support low-income farmers through the Farm Assist Scheme and adapt it in consultation with the relevant farming organisations. It would be prudent to examine the effects of the new arrangements prior to consideration of any substantive changes to the Farm Assist Scheme. In due course, consideration of any changes to the scheme would take place in a budgetary context.