David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 64: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of applications received in the bioenergy scheme 2011; the number of hectares of planting which will be supported under the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7780/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Bioenergy Scheme for 2011 was launched on 16th November 2010, with a closing date for receipt of applications of 19th January 2011. Due to the adverse weather conditions experienced in December 2010 and early January 2011 which caused great difficulty for farmers, advisors and contractors in assessing suitability of land for planting with miscanthus or willow, the then Minister announced a two week extension of the closing date for receipt of applications until 2nd February 2011.

89 applications were received under the 2011 Bioenergy Scheme. To date, 42 pre-planting approvals have been issued, representing in the region of 200 hectares of willow and a further 200 hectares of miscanthus. 22 applications were either withdrawn after the Scheme closing date or did not meet the criteria for the Scheme. Some 25 further applications are still being processed.