257 Deputy Edward O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the introduction of a scheme (details supplied). [37956/10]

EU Commission approval for the introduction of five targeted modernisation schemes focused on supporting productive investment in the agricultural sector was received earlier this year. Due to the relatively short time-frames for completion of the investment works concerned, priority was given to the introduction of the Sow Welfare and Poultry Welfare Schemes which were launched on 16 June last. The Sheep Fencing/Handling Scheme will open for new applications on 1 November next.

No date has yet been fixed for the introduction of the Dairy Equipment Scheme. Under the terms of Ireland's Rural Development Programme, the Scheme will provide grant-aid for (i) milking machine equipment, and (ii) milk storage and cooling equipment, at a standard grant-rate of 40 per cent up to a maximum grant level.