36 Mr. Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will outline his proposals for the expansion of the agri-tourism scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The agri-tourism scheme forms part of the Operational Programme for Rural Development which is part funded by the EC Structural Funds. Due to the exceptionally high demand under the scheme, funds made avilable for the period 1989-93 have now been fully committed. Efforts to secure additional EC funds have not been fruitful to date.