Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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406. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will be permitted to withdraw from the beef data scheme on medical grounds without penalties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46058/19]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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The Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP) provides for six years of payments to participating farmers for completion of actions which deliver accelerated genetic improvement in the Irish national herd and improvement of its environmental sustainability.

In applying to join the Beef Data Genomics Programme (BDGP), the person named committed to participating in the programme for the full 6 years of the programme. The terms and conditions of the Programme state that, where a contract is terminated by an applicant, all moneys paid under the Programme shall be repaid to the Department except in certain cases including where force majeure applies.

Where a beneficiary is unable to continue complying with the requirements of the Programme for reasons beyond his/her control, a case may be made under force majeure to terminate participation in the Programme.

Medical evidence supporting a request to withdraw from the Programme was received from the person named on the 19th of March 2019. A letter clarifying the implications of any potential withdrawal from the programme and seeking confirmation of the intentions of the person named issued from my Department on the 8th of May 2019.

A reply from the person named was received on the 16th of May 2019 which indicated their desire to remain in the programme. If they now once again wish to withdraw from the scheme under force majeure, the person named must inform my Department in writing including any relevant medical evidence they have to substantiate their position.