Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 25: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of inspections carried out to date in 2010 in both REP schemes and single farm payment on a monthly basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45183/10]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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In 2010, 1,535 REPS 4 applicants were selected for inspection, while 1,483 REPS 3 applicants were selected for inspection. These inspections have been taking place since June at the rate of over 400 per month in order to ensure that all inspections are carried out before the year end. Inspections are required to take place throughout the year as some measures, such as requirements associated with the housing of livestock (a defined period during the winter months) are time specific. Inspections must be completed within the calendar year.

The attached table gives the number of Inspections covering eligibility and cross-compliance issues carried out per Month to date in 2010 by my Department. These inspection covered the Single Payment Scheme, the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme the Rural Environment Protection Scheme (REPs), the Suckler Cow Welfare Scheme, the Grassland Sheep Scheme, and compliance with the Good Agricultural Practice Regulations (GAP) concerning water quality, 1500 of which were carried out on behalf of Local Authorities.

A further 3,172 inspections were carried out by satellite without the need for an on-farm visit.