asked the Minister for Agriculture the reason for the delay in payment of the dairy herd conversion scheme and the hardship scheme grants to a farmer (details supplied) in County Louth.

There has been no delay in this case. The herd owner applied on 12 September 1979 for admission to the scheme of premiums for conversion of dairy herds. The initial inspection of the herd took place on 25 October 1979. In accordance with the terms and conditions of the scheme further inquiries which are proceeding are necessary before the application can be approved.

Reactors under the brucellosis eradication scheme were received in the factory on 26 November 1979. Payment will be made in respect of these reactors shortly. The herdowner's position in relation to grants out of the hardship fund for these reactors is currently being examined.