Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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997. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide additional support for sheep farmers who are struggling to make a living; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9537/16]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of the challenges facing all farm sectors currently including the sheep sector. The Programme for Government reflects our commitment to helping this sector develop. The sheep sector is the third largest farming sector in Ireland with over 34,000 producers and exports worth €230 million in 2015. It makes a vital contribution to our rural economy. In relation to a further direct payment per ewe, the Programme for Government has made a clear commitment to providing €25 million for a new sheep support scheme under the RDP. My Department is currently examining the matter. Consultation with farm bodies will commence shortly, with the intention of submitting an amendment to the RDP as soon as possible, so that a new scheme can be provided for in Budget 2017.

Any such scheme must contribute to the long term development of the sector, and will be subject to parameters laid down in the Rural Development Regulation and to EU Commission approval.