John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 129: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of persons in County Mayo awaiting payment under the ewe maintenance scheme; when payment will issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12117/11]

John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 130: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of applications received from persons in County Mayo under the ewe maintenance scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12118/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 129 and 130 together.

During the CAP Health Check negotiations, agreement was reached on the use of unspent funds under the single payment scheme; the sheep sector was identified as vulnerable and in need of specific supports. This scheme, which focuses on those flocks with breeding ewes, is designed to assist in the maintenance of the national breeding flock, thereby acting as a real incentive to farmers anxious to maintain their production levels, which are essential for the future of a viable sheep industry in this country. The Scheme will operate for three years, 2010, 2011 and 2012, with a total budget of €54 million, i.e. €18 million per annum.

Under the 2010 scheme, 3,825 applications were received from persons in County Mayo and, to date, payment has issued in respect of 3,489 of these. Processing of the remaining 336 cases is currently nearing conclusion, with a view to payments issuing shortly, where eligibility is confirmed.