asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the subjects to be covered in the Government's plan to be submitted to the EEC before 1st June 1972, which will enable Ireland to draw on the guidance section of the European Agricultural Fund.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - European Agricultural Fund.
71.
As already indicated in reply to the Deputy on 14th March, the question of putting forward projects for assistance from the guidance section of the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund is under examination at present. No closing date has yet been fixed for the submission of proposals in this connection by Ireland and the other new member states for the year 1973. The closing date of 1st June, 1972 applies to the submission of proposals by existing member states for the year 1972.
Is the Minister aware his Parliamentary Secretary said in this House that this closing date applies to this country, and would he care to say if that is so? Would he say when Ireland's submission will be made available so that it can be examined in time for the issuing of funds from the EEC as from 1st January next?
The closing date for member states for this year is 1st June but the practice is to extend it to October. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that a similar extension will be possible here, but I am not building on that possibility. This matter is being considered now. There may be a misapprehension—
When will the Minister have plans ready?
I think it will be necessary to confer with the farming organisations in the formulation of proposals. Also, I am quite confident we will have our submissions made in good time——
Is it not obvious that if the existing members must have their proposals in by 1st June next, it is intended to exclude the applicant members?
What is being considered at the moment are the conditions that bind member countries. We are not EEC members and will not be until next year. When we become members it will be necessary for us to make certain proposals and we will be ready to make them.