Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 66: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the details of the new targeted scheme for on-farm investment announced as part of a revised rural development programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43450/09]

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

As part of proposals in relation to the use of unspent Single Payment Scheme and Modulation funds and the European Economic Recovery Programme, I have announced that, in the case of on-farm investment schemes, I intend to introduce support for a number of specific categories of farmers which shall be focused on supporting productive investment. The measures shall include: A scheme for dairy farmers to make the necessary investment to adjust to expanding dairy opportunities and promote the operation of cost-effective commercial operations by such farmers; Aid for sheep fencing and handling facilities to assist sheep farmers in reducing labour input in a vulnerable sector; Aid for farmers for water harvesting and conservation equipment, which will reduce water costs on farms; Animal welfare grants (a) for pig producers to assist in the conversion to loose housing for sows; and (b) for poultry producers to assist in the conversion to enriched cages, free range or barn systems.

The measures will be strictly cash-limited and are currently being considered by the EU Commission. The measures will be introduced as soon as relevant EU approval has been obtained and following agreement on the specific cash-limits available for each measure.