Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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188. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of applications for the beef environmental efficiency pilot scheme by county; the number of cows applied for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11356/19]

Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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189. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of applications to the beef environmental efficiency pilot scheme in terms of herd size (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11357/19]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 188 and 189 together.

The Beef Environmental Efficiency Pilot (BEEP) is a targeted support of €20 million for suckler farmers, specifically aimed at further improving the economic and environmental efficiency of beef production.  As well as clear environmental and climate benefits, the BEEP will provide farm gate investment at a time of market volatility and uncertainty relating to Brexit.  The pilot has been designed to be as straightforward as possible.  

Applications from 18,593 herd owners have been received for the Beef Environmental Efficiency Pilot.  As calves born up until 30 June 2019 are eligible, a final figure for eligible calves is not yet available.

The breakdown by county of applications of expressions of interest can be seen in the following table: