FG asks Walsh to clarify REPS rules

Fine Gael agricultural and food spokesman Billy Timmins has called on Agriculture Minister Joe Walsh to clarify whether or not there is a difficulty for farmers involved in the Rural Environment Protection Scheme (REPS) and milk partnerships.

Mr Timmins department officials are concerned that farmers seeking to be part of REPS 3 and milk partnerships are likely to run into difficulties as participation in both schemes may be contrary to EU regulations.

“The difficulty occurs when they attempt to join new REPS schemes, particularly if they are in a partnership with another REPS scheme participant,” he said.