259. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of farm plan scheme applications that were received in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20210/24]

260. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of farm plan scheme applications that were approved in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20211/24]

261. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of farm plan scheme participants who had planners appointed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20212/24]

262. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of farm plan scheme participants who had plans in place by the end of 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20213/24]

263. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of 2023 applicants to the farm plan scheme who received a payment in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20214/24]

264. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the average payment made in 2023 to all farm plan scheme participants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20215/24]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 259 to 264, inclusive, together.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Farm Plan Scheme is a means to engage with farmers and landowners to enhance nature on their land, through encouragement, advice and financial supports.

A total of 372 farm plans were active over the course of 2023, with a total number of 24 planners. However, some farmers withdrew from the scheme, resulting in 322 active plans by the end of the year.

In 2023, a call for new farm plans was issued and 174 applications were received. After a competitive process, 63 plans were approved. There were no new planners appointed in 2023.

Planners are now being appointed to prepare these 63 NPWS farm plans, following the conclusion of a competitive procurement and evaluation process.

This will bring the total number of active plans to 385, assuming contracts are finalised with the relevant farmers.

Payments totalling €874,457 were made to existing participants in 2023. The NPWS is continuing to verify and process outstanding payments to participants for their 2023 commitments, in compliance with the terms and conditions of the NPWS Farm Plan Scheme, with an average individual payment of approximately €8,832.