Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 175: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will be permitted to switch from cattle to sheep and retain their entitlements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37801/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Under the provisions of the Single Farm Payment, it is necessary for the applicant maintain an agricultural activity including maintaining the land in Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition. There is no restriction, therefore, in an applicant altering his or her farming activity from cattle to a sheep breeding enterprise, for example. The important matter is that sufficient stock be maintained to keep the land compliant with Good Agricultural Condition and eligible for payment.

The Terms and Conditions governing the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme require applicants to maintain a minimum stocking density on their holding of 0.15 livestock units per forage hectare declared, for a period of at least three consecutive months during the year of application. Various types of livestock are acceptable under the Scheme such as cattle, sheep, goats, etc. Sufficient proof under each category will be required. For cattle, sheep and goats, details are held on the Department's database; in respect of horses, passports are required to be sent to Disadvantaged Areas Section of my Department; while in respect of deer, a Department official can verify the numbers.