Dáil Éireann - Volume 606 - 04 October, 2005

Written Answers. - Grant Payments.

Mr. Hogan Mr. Hogan

  148. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her plans for the modulation fund under the single farm payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26194/05]

Mr. G. Murphy Mr. G. Murphy

  182. Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her plans for the modulation fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26206/05]

Mary Coughlan Mary Coughlan

  Mary Coughlan:I propose to take Questions Nos. 148 and 182 together.

For 2006, I have decided that the modulated funds should be used on a once-off payment under the disadvantaged areas scheme. This requires EU approval and is under current consideration by the EU Commission. My decision reflects the importance of the disadvantaged areas scheme in ensuring continued agricultural land use in the less favoured areas. This in turn leads to economic and environmental benefits.

1337

For the 2007-13 period, the use of modulated funds will be considered in the context of the new [1337] rural development strategy and programme to be drawn up for that period.

Dáil Éireann 606 Written Answers. Grant Payments.

Questions

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