117 Mr. Hyland asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry whether he is committed to the promotion of deer farming as an alternative farm enterprise; and if so, the plans, if any, he has to have deer farming included in the 1996 headage schemes. [8327/96]

I am fully committed to the promotion of deer farming as an alternative enterprise. This is evident from the number of support measures which are already available to deer production enterprises through the auspices of my Department.

1. The alternative enterprise scheme gives grant-aid on investments of up to £20,000 for the provision of deer handling facilities and fencing at a rate of 50 per cent in less favoured areas and 40 per cent elsewhere.