Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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209. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of the online system dealing with farmers' maps (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1838/16]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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My Department has placed great importance on the online application system since its introduction in 2007. This included the introduction of an electronic mapping facility in 2012 which allowed for more accurate updating of land parcels, fewer penalties for farmers and faster processing of applications. The introduction of the new Basic Payment Scheme in 2015 necessitated a new online application system for farmers and agricultural agents. My officials devised a farmer friendly system that ensured Irish farmers complied with the new CAP regime, especially the new requirements under Greening.

Following the introduction of the new system which involved complex programming issues a problem arose for 678 applicants who drew maps on an amendment form – these maps were not visible to farmers or their agents. However it’s important to stress that at no point were these maps lost. It is also important to note that farmers were not disadvantaged as a result of this issue and the applications were processed as normal.

In advance of the 2016 BPS application period, this issue has been resolved, and the new on-line system is being finalised a long with other improvements with the intention of continuing the progress made in the submission of on-line applications. Approximately 70% of BPS applicants now submit their applications on line.