237. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of applications that remain outstanding under the Farming for Water (FFW) European Innovation Partnership (EIP); the efforts that are being made to issue payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47983/26]

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

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. All applications received have been, or are being, reviewed for approval. Management of applications, verification of measures taken, processing and approval of individual farmer payments for the FFW EIP are made by LAWPRO's administration staff and catchment scientists. Payment checks are then conducted by my Department before payments are issued by LAWPRO.

The 5-year budget for the FFW EIP is €60 million, with €50 million from my Department for farmer payments under the CSP, and an additional €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.