424. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on a scheme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46442/26]

I can confirm that the Farming for Water EIP Operational Group has received 5,499 applications for the period 2024-2026, of which 5,461 have been approved. The number of verified applicants to have received at least one payment under this EIP is 4,362. 1,823 applicants are currently awaiting a payment. Once all required checks are completed, payments will issue to these applicants.

The Farming for Water EIP is delivered by an Operational Group led by LAWPRO (the Local Authorities Water Programme), which includes Teagasc, Dairy Industry Ireland and other stakeholders, including Bórd Bia.

Approvals for applications, verification of measures taken, processing and approval of individual farmer payments for the Farming for Water EIP are made by LAWPRO's administration staff and catchment scientists. Payment checks are conducted by my Department.

The 5-year budget for the Farming for Water EIP is €60 million, with €50 million from my Department for farmer payments under the CSP, and €10 million from the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage for administration of the project. Both Departments provide ongoing directional input to the project via the Strategic Oversight Committee.