Lisa Chambers (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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558. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the number of sheep for the nine tenants in Saula, Achill, County Mayo can be reduced from 343 to 220 for the commonage area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31852/18]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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The conservation and sustainable management of commonages is a key aim of the Green, Low-carbon, Agri-environment Scheme (GLAS). Commonages are categorised as a Priority Environmental Assets (PEAs) under the Scheme.

The Commonage Management Plan, as drawn up by a qualified and trained Agricultural Advisor, is central to ensuring that the desired outputs are delivered by GLAS in terms of commonage lands. The plan sets out defined stocking levels and activities for participant farmer(s). The plan must be based on a comprehensive site assessment, complemented by other pertinent data such as livestock numbers and types of habitat.

A Scientific Assessment is required if the Advisor wants to change the stocking density on the commonage based on a professional assessment and a scientific basis.  The GLAS CMP online system facilitates the submission of such scientific assessments.