Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

792. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will consider changing the criterial for the ACRES scheme to allow flock keepers to make applications as many farms throughout the country are going through probate following the death of a herd owner and these families risk losing out on the ACRES scheme as they are herd keepers as opposed to herd owners while legal matters are being dealt with; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57893/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In preparation for the launch of ACRES, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) undertook a review of operational and contractual issues that could potentially impact on scheme delivery and farmer participation. This review concluded that, while it is important to support the broadest possible spectrum of farmer participation, there were difficulties with cases going through probate.

Under EU regulations, DAFM is obliged to ensure that contracts offered remain active and fully managed for a minimum contract term of five years.

ACRES is a five-year commitment which requires the identification of land parcels, actions and the person responsible for contract delivery at the application stage.

Where succession questions are outstanding, it is clear at application or approval stage with whom DAFM would be contracting in the longer term, and who will have final control of the land entering the scheme.

Where cases enter probate after contract approval, a contract transfer option will be available under which the next of kin can apply to take on the ACRES contract.