Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 191: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will immediately announce the introduction of a new, properly funded agri-environment option scheme in order that farmers whose REP scheme contracts have expired can continue to improve their farms in an environmentally friendly manner with the support of this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11980/12]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of the fact that farmers have or will finish their REPS contract during 2012 and I am actively considering the possibility of re-opening the Agri-environment Options Scheme on an amended basis or limited scale in 2012. This decision will be taken in the context of an assessment of how a new scheme might be funded within the reduced funding and resulting pressures on the Department's Vote in the current year and, in particular, having regard to the expenditure ceiling for 2013 as agreed by the Government.

I will make a decision on this matter shortly.