Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

235. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of persons that have been paid under the new agri-environment option scheme 3 out of the applications applied for prior to Christmas 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23528/13]

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

A total of 9,689 applications have been received by my Department under the Agri-environmental Options Scheme. The selection process is almost complete and all applicants will be notified of the outcome very shortly.

In light of the difficulties experienced by farmers in sourcing fodder supplies, I announced the allocation of €1 million to fund the Imported Fodder Transport Scheme, which is designed to reduce the cost to farmers of imported forage (hay, silage, haylage) from outside the island of Ireland. In light of the continuing difficulties being experienced, I extended the duration of the scheme to Friday 24 May, a broadening of its scope to include maize silage and a doubling of the budget to €2 million. I am pleased to note that since the introduction of this Scheme that significant quantities of fodder have been imported and are reaching those in most need.