WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
23 December 2009 
 
 (09-6556) 
Committee on Subsidies and 
Countervailing Measures Original:   English 
 
 
 
SUBSIDIES 
 
New and Full Notification Pursuant to Article XVI:1  
of the GATT 1994 and Article 25 of the Agreement  
on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures  
 
EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES 
 
Addendum  
 
  The following addendum to the notification of the European Communities
* relates to subsidy 
programmes of Ireland . 
 
_______________ 
 
                                                      
* On 1 December 2009, the Treaty of Lisbon amendi ng the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty 
establishing the European Comm unity (done at Lisbon, 13 Decembe r 2007) entered into force.  
On 29 November 2009, the WTO received a Verbal Note  (WT/L/779) from the Council  of the European Union 
and the Commission of the European Communities stating that, by virtue of the Treaty of Lisbon, as of 
1 December 2009, the European Union replaces and succeeds the European Community. G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 2  
 
  IRELAND 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
Page 
 
I. PROGRAMMES 2007..............................................................................................................4  
1. SCHEME FOR THE COLLECTION OF RUMINANT FALLEN ANIMALS .............................................4  
2. SCHEME OF GRANT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ORGANIC SECTOR – OFF 
FARM ............................................................................................................................... ............5  
3. SCHEME OF GRANT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ORGANIC SECTOR - ON-
FARM ............................................................................................................................... ............6  
4. NATIONAL SCHEME OF INSTALLATION AID (OPARDF 1994-1999) .............................................7  
5. SCHEME OF INVESTMENT AID IN ALTERNATIVE ENTERPRISES (HOUSING /HANDLING 
FACILITIES ) (NDP  2000-2006)....................................................................................................8  
6. DEPOPULATION GRANT ..............................................................................................................8  
7. INCOME SUPPLEMENT SCHEME .................................................................................................10  
8. HARDSHIP GRANT SCHEME .......................................................................................................11  
9. ON FARM MARKET VALUATION SCHEME (*TB  BREAKDOWNS )..............................................12  
10. SCHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL 
HORTICULTURE SECTOR ...........................................................................................................13  
11. SCHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE POTATO SECTOR ...................14  
12. CAPITAL GRANT SCHEME FOR ANIMAL CARCASE DISPOSAL (NDP 2000-2006) ......................15  
13. BIO-ENERGY SCHEME ...............................................................................................................15  
14. NATIONAL ENERGY CROP PREMIUM ........................................................................................16  
15. KERRY CATTLE PREMIUM SCHEME ..........................................................................................17  
16. NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2007-13:   IMPROVEMENT IN CATTLE BREEDING .................18  
17. GINA CATTLE BREEDING ..........................................................................................................19  
18. IMPROVEMENT OF EQUINE BREEDING INFRASTRUCTURES ......................................................20  
19. EQUINE INFRASTRUCTURES ......................................................................................................21  
20. EQUINE QUALITY SCHEME (BMW )............................................................................................22  
21. EQUINE QUALITY SCHEME (S&E) .............................................................................................22  
22. HUMAN RESOURCES (INTERNATIONAL EQUINE INSTITUTE ) ....................................................23  
23. ASSISTANCE FOR THE NON-THOROUGHBRED HORSE INDUSTRY .............................................24  
II. PROGRAMMES 2008............................................................................................................26  
1. SCHEME FOR THE COLLECTION OF RUMINANT FALLEN ANIMALS ...........................................26  
2. SCHEME OF GRANT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ORGANIC SECTOR - OFF 
FARM ............................................................................................................................... ..........27   G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 3 
 
 
  3. SCHEME OF GRANT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ORGANIC SECTOR -ON FARM .........28  
4. NATIONAL SCHEME OF INSTALLATION AID (OPARDF 1994-1999) ...........................................29  
5. SCHEME OF INVESTMENT AID IN ALTERNATIVE ENTERPRISES (HOUSING /HANDLING 
FACILITIES ) (NDP 2000-2006) ...................................................................................................29  
6. DEPOPULATION GRANT ............................................................................................................30  
7. INCOME SUPPLEMENT SCHEME .................................................................................................31  
8. HARDSHIP GRANT SCHEME .......................................................................................................32  
9. ON-FARM MARKET VALUATION SCHEME (*TB BREAKDOWNS )..............................................33  
10. SCHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL 
HORTICULTURE SECTOR ...........................................................................................................35  
11. SCHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE POTATO SECTOR ...................36  
12. CAPITAL GRANT SCHEME FOR ANIMAL CARCASE DISPOSAL (NDP 2000-2006) ......................36  
13. BIO-ENERGY SCHEME ...............................................................................................................37  
14. KERRY CATTLE PREMIUM SCHEME ..........................................................................................38  
15. NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2007-13:   IMPROVEMENT IN CATTLE BREEDING .................39  
16. GINA CATTLE BREEDING ..........................................................................................................40  
17. NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2007-13:   IMPROVEMENT IN SHEEP BREEDING ....................41  
18. EQUINE INFRASTRUCTURES ......................................................................................................42  
19. IMPROVEMENT OF EQUINE BREEDING INFRASTRUCTURES ......................................................43  
20. HUMAN RESOURCES (INTERNATIONAL EQUINE INSTITUTE ) ....................................................44  
21. ASSISTANCE FOR THE NON-THOROUGHBRED HORSE INDUSTRY .............................................44  
22. THE PIGMEAT RECALL SCHEME ...............................................................................................45  
23. THE DIOXIN CULL SCHEME ......................................................................................................47  
 G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
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I. PROGRAMMES 2007 
1. S
CHEME FOR THE COLLECTION OF RUMINANT FALLEN ANIMALS  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
 Scheme for the Collection of Ruminant Fallen Animals 
 2. Period under review
 
  2007 
 
3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  The Scheme aims to underpin and further impr ove the existing infrastructure for fallen animal 
collectors, to maximize the number of fallen animals being collected, to integrate fully with BSE 
requirements, to minimize the use of license d burial and to provide additional important 
environmental benefits.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  European Communities (Kn ackery) Regulations, 1996 
 S.I.  No. 396 of 1996 
 Regulation (EC) No. 1774/2002  S.I.  No. 273/2002  S.I.  No. 248/2003  
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Payment to animal collectors and to rendering companies  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 Licensed animal collectors are paid by farmers and by the State for the collection of fallen 
bovine animals.  The State also subsidizes 100 per cent of the cost of rendering and destruction of 
bovine fallen animals and approximate ly 63 per cent of the cost of rendering and destruction of other 
non-bovine fallen animals.  
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  €23,793,968  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 There are no time-limits attached to the subsidy. 
 9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade. 
  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 5 
 
 
  2. SCHEME OF GRANT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ORGANIC SECTOR – OFF FARM 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Scheme of Grant Aid for the Development of the Organic Sector – Off Farm  
2. Period under review
 
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The aim of the Scheme is to facilitate the deve lopment of the organic sector so as to ensure a 
regular supply of high quality organic produce to the market.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 The Scheme is approved as an alternativ e enterprise sub-measure under the National 
Development Plan 2007-2013.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Financial assistance is directed towards projects which: 
 
• Improve the organic sector and provide the producers of the basic product with an 
opportunity of enhancing income; 
• help to guide production in line with for eseeable market trends or encourage the 
development of new outlets for agricultural products; 
• help to improve production, handling and preparation of organic produce; 
• facilitate the adoption and application of new technologies; 
• help to ensure the adoption of "best practice" within the organic. 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided  
  This Scheme will provide financial assistance in respect of approved 
investments/development projects as follows:  devel oping facilities for preparation, grading, packing, 
storage, distribution, or the sale of organic products as part of a wider organic operation. 
 
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  The grant aid is payable at 40 per cent of th e eligible cost.  However the maximum subsidy 
payable for off-farm investment is €500,000 over the duration of the Scheme (up to 2013).  Projects 
costing less than €1,500 will not be eligible for grant assistance. 
 8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Subsidies are made as one-off payments on certa in investments.  Applicants are entitled to 
apply for several payments of subsidies on differe nt investments subject to the maximum ceiling. G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 6  
 
   
(i) Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
   Not considered to have any impact on trade.  
3. S
CHEME OF GRANT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ORGANIC SECTOR - ON-FARM 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Scheme of Grant Aid for the Development of the Organic Sector– On Farm  
2. Period under review
 
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The aim of the Scheme is to facilitate the deve lopment of the organic sector so as to ensure a 
regular supply of high quality organic produce to the market.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 The Scheme is approved as an alternativ e enterprise sub-measure under the National 
Development Plan 2007-2013.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Financial assistance is directed towards projects which: 
• Improve the organic sector and provide the producers of the basic product with an 
opportunity of enhancing income; 
• help to guide production in line with for eseeable market trends or encourage the 
development of new outlets for agricultural products; 
• help to improve production, handling and preparation of organic produce; 
• facilitate the adoption and application of new technologies; 
• help to ensure the adoption of "best practice" within the organic. 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided  
 
 This Scheme will provide financial assistance in respect of approved 
investments/development projects on agricultura l holdings, including equipment and facilities for 
production, preparation, grading, packing, storag e, distribution and/or sale of organic products. 
 
7. Total amount of subsidy  
  The grant aid is payable at 40 per cent of th e eligible cost.  However the maximum subsidy 
payable for on-farm investment is €60,000 over  the duration of the Scheme (up to 2013). 
  Projects costing less than €1,500 will not be eligible for grant assistance. 
  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 7 
 
 
  8. Duration of the subsidy  
  Subsidies are made as one-off payments on certa in investments.  Applicants are entitled to 
apply for several payments of subsidies on differe nt investments subject to the maximum ceiling. 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade.  4. N
ATIONAL SCHEME OF INSTALLATION AID (OPARDF 1994-1999) 
1. Title of subsidy  
  National Scheme of Instal lation Aid (OPARDF 1994-1999) 
 2. Period under review
 
 
 2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  Support provided to encourage the installation of well trained young farmers. 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  The Scheme is administered by the Depart ment of Agriculture, Fisheries & Food and is 
funded by the National Exchequer. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct payment to the farmer.  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 A flat premium of €7,110.53 is paid on appr oval of a valid application for payment. 
 7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 2007:  €0.021 million 
 8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Once off payment  
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  No details available  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
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  5. S
CHEME OF INVESTMENT AID IN ALTERNATIVE ENTERPRISES (HOUSING /HANDLING 
FACILITIES ) (NDP  2000-2006) 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Scheme of Investment Aid in Alterna tive Enterprises (Housing/Handling Facilities) 
(NDP 2000-2006) 
 2. Period under review
 
  2007 
 
3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  The objective of the Scheme is to promote and maintain agricultural en terprises not in surplus 
by providing grant aid to farmers for investment  in housing/handling facilities for horses, deer, 
rabbits, goat and other acceptable non-quota species. 
 4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  This Scheme is a sub-Measure under the Re gional Operational Programme for the Border, 
Midland and Western Region and the Southern and Eastern Region and is funded by the Irish 
Government under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. 
 5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct payment to the farmer 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  Payment of grants, up to a maximum investment  eligible for grant aid of €31,743 per holding, 
on approval of a valid application for payment.  
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  2007:  €0.99 million  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 Once-off payment  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  No details available 
 
6. D
EPOPULATION GRANT  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Depopulation Grant 
  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 9 
 
 
  2. Period under review  
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 A farmer whose herd is depopulated (totally or pa rtially) in the interest of the control of TB or 
Brucellosis may qualify for Depopulation Grants.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 The Scheme is implemented by the Depart ment of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.  
Depopulation Grants are paid for each animal re moved under the depopulation measure and for those 
removed as reactors since the holding was restricted.  
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The Depopulation Grant Rates applying are as follows:  
 Stable 
 TB Brucellosis 
Animal Rate 
(€) Standard rate 
(€) Standard rate plus 
(€) 
(i) Dairy cows / In-calf heifers / 
Pedigree bulls > 12 months 228.52 126.97 228.55 
(ii) Other cows / In-calf heifers 126.96 126.97 126.97 
(iii) Other animals 76.16 38.09 76.18 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided  
 
 The subsidy is paid by the Department direct  to eligible farmers as a headage payment in 
respect of reactor animals removed under the TB and Brucellosis Eradication Schemes. 
 7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 €293,438  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  The subsidy is payable from 1 January to 31 December but applies only during periods of 
restriction. 
 9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  The subsidy is designed to compensate farmers for lost income arising from the depopulation 
of their herds as a result of disease and does not have any impact on trade. 
 Note
: Bovine Disease Levies - In 2007, farmers c ontributed €6.20 million to the cost of the 
compensation paid under the TB and Brucellosis eradication schemes through the Disease Levies which are collected on cattle slaughter ings/live exports and milk deliveries to 
creameries. 
 G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
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  7. I
NCOME SUPPLEMENT SCHEME  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Income Supplement Scheme  
2. Period under review
 
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 Income Supplement is payable in cases where a TB or Brucellosis breakdown results in the 
removal of more than 10 per cent of animals in a herd and where depopulation is not deemed 
appropriate.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  The Income Supplement is in operation since 1 July 1994.  The Scheme is implemented by 
the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.  Payment is in respect of each animal removed as 
a reactor from a herd, subject to a maximum of 100 animals qualifying for payment.  
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The rates currently in force are as follows:   Income Supplement Monthly rates 
 
Animal Stable 
 TB (€) Rate (€) 
(i) Other cows 38.09 38.09 
(ii) Dairy cows & other animals 25.39 25.39 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided  
 
 Income Supplement is paid by the Departme nt directly to eligible farmers following 
determination of eligibility.  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  €2,581,908 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  The Income Supplement Scheme runs from 1 January to 31 December and applies only during the period of restriction. 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  The scheme is designed to compensate farmers for losses arising from the removal of reactors 
and does not have any impact on trade.   G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 11 
 
 
  8. HARDSHIP GRANT SCHEME  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Hardship Grant Scheme  
2. Period under review
 
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The grant is aimed at assisting eligible owne rs/keepers whose holding is restricted due to a 
TB or Brucellosis outbreak.  It is intended to facilitate the purchase of fodder where animals are 
retained and fed during periods of restri ction between 1 November and 30 April. 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
  The Scheme is implemented by the Department  of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.  This 
Scheme is designed to alleviate the costs difficulty of some owner/keepers whose holdings are restricted on foot of a herd re test for TB or Br ucellosis and where animals are retained and fed during 
periods of restriction.  Potentially eligible ow ner/keepers must meet certain conditions including 
requirements that they:  (i) must not have any income from milk sales;  and (ii) must not have any 
off-farm income.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 The subsidy is payable on animals in a restricted herd subject to a maximum payment of up to 
€250.00 per month for a period not exceeding four mont hs within the period 1 November to 30 April. 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  The onus is on eligible owners/keepers to comple te and return the relevant Application Form, 
as entitlement for eligibility can only be  determined from the date of receipt of the application.  Only 
one application for this grant can be made duri ng the relevant period November to April.  The 
Hardship grants are paid by the Depart ment directly to eligible farmers. 
 7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 €658,131  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  The Hardship Grant Scheme has been in operation since 1996.  The grant is payable in respect 
of a period not exceeding 4 months for the months 1 November to 30 April. 
 9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  The subsidy is designed to compensate farmer s for the additional costs of feeding cattle and 
does not have any impact on trade. 
 G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
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  9. O
N FARM MARKET VALUATION SCHEME (*TB  BREAKDOWNS ) 
1. Title of subsidy  
  On Farm Market Valuati on Scheme (*TB breakdowns) 
 
2. Period under review
 
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The On Farm Market Valuation Scheme is the principal compensation measure available to farmers whose herds are affected by TB and Brucello sis.  Payment is made to herd-owners in respect 
of animals removed as reactors.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  The Scheme is implemented by the Department  of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and is in 
place since 2 April 2002 when it replaced the Reacto r Grant element of the compensation regime.  
The Scheme is notified to the Commission in the disease programme submitted annually in the 
context of EU co-funded schemes, but co-funding was not provided since 2005 in respect of the 
TB eradication scheme.  Payment is designed to compensate herd-owners for the loss of animals 
removed under the scheme and is based on the Market Value of animals which is the equivalent price 
which might reasonably be obtained for the animal at the time of determination of compensation, 
from a purchaser in an open market, if the animal were  not affected by TB or Brucellosis, subject to 
certain limits applying. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The valuation of animals removed under the On  Farm Market Valuation Scheme is carried 
out by one of a number of suitably qualified inde pendent Valuers approved by the Department.  To 
ensure a uniform application, and ongoing complian ce with all relevant criteria of the scheme, 
summary prices collected by the Department ar e supplied to Valuers each week and on-going 
monitoring of valuations is also carried out by the Department.  Reactor animals are removed for 
slaughter to a designated factory where salvage va lue, as determined by the factory based on a 
competitive tender, is paid directly to the herd -owner.  The scheme allows for a maximum ceiling 
payment of €2,540 (increased to €2,800 for valua tions which took place on or after 26 March 2007), 
inclusive of factory salvage price, in respect of any individual animals, except in the case of one 
pedigree stock bull per breakdown episode wher e a ceiling of €3,175 (increases to €3,500 for 
valuations which took place on or af ter 26 March 2007), inclusive of f actory salvage price, applies. 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 Payments due in respect of eligible animal s removed, being the differential between the 
market value determined by the valuer (subject to ceilings) and the salvage value paid by the factory, 
are paid by the Department directly to farmers.  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 €15,517,862   G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 13 
 
 
  8. Duration of the subsidy  
  Payments under the scheme are made on an ongoing basis for all eligible animals removed 
during the period of restriction of the herd.  
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  The scheme is designed to compensate farmers for losses arising from the removal of reactors 
and does not have any impact on trade.  
Note
: Payment of subsidies under the On Farm Mark et Valuation Scheme apply to animals removed 
under both the TB and Brucellosis Eradication Sche mes.  Amounts indicated as paid relate to 
only those animals removed under the TB Erad ication Scheme because On Farm Market 
Valuation compensation paid in respect of an imals removed under the Brucellosis Eradication 
Scheme has been partly financed from EU funds. 
 
10. SCHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL HORTICULTURE 
SECTOR  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture sector 
 
2. Period under review
 
  2007  
3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  The objective of the Scheme is to assist the deve lopment of the Horticulture Sector by aiding 
investments in specialized capital Plant a nd equipment in Commercial Horticulture. 
 4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 The Scheme is a sub-measure under th e Regional Operational Programmes for the 
BMW Region and the Southern and Eastern Region a nd is funded by the Irish Government under the 
National Development Plan 2000-2006.  
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct payment to applicant  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 Direct payment to producers of horticulture produce, towards the capital cost of plant and 
equipment.  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 €1.51 million 
 G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 14  
 
  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  The grant is a once-off payment.  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
 
 The scheme aims to improve the quality of prod ucts and is not considered to have a direct 
impact on trade.  11. S
CHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE POTATO SECTOR  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Potato Sector 
 2. Period under review
 
 
 2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  The objective of the Scheme is to speed up im provements in the marketing infrastructure of 
the Potato Sector. 
 4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  The Scheme is a sub-measure under the Regi onal Operational Programmes for the border, 
Midland and Western Region and the Southern and Eastern Region and is funded by the Irish 
Government under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 approved under EU State Aid 
Guidelines, N297/00.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Direct payment to applicant 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  Grant assistance to farmers and producers of potatoes, towards the capital cost of providing 
facilities for the storage and marketing of seed and wa re potatoes.  A grant of 35 per cent of approved 
expenditure is paid to applicants of approve d projects and full compliance with the terms and 
conditions of the Scheme.  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
  €351,791 
 8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  The grant is a once-off payment. 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have a direct impact on trade.  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 15 
 
 
   
12. CAPITAL GRANT SCHEME FOR ANIMAL CARCASE DISPOSAL (NDP 2000-2006) 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Capital Grant Scheme for Animal Carcase Disposal (NDP 2000-2006) 
 
2. Period under review
 
  2007  
3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  The specific objectives of the Scheme are to:   - Help provide a safe means of disposal of animal carcases; 
 - protect lands, watercourses and wate r tables from possible contamination; 
 - minimize disease risk and assist animal traceability.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  This Scheme is a sub-measure under the Re gional Operational Programme for the Border, 
Midlands and Western Region and the Southern and Eastern Region and is funded by the Irish 
Government under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. 
 5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Direct payments to Category  2 Intermediate Plant owners. 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  Payments of grants, up to a maximum of €63,487 in the Border, Midlands and Western Region and €50,790 in the Southern and Eastern Region, to pre-approved. 
 
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  2007:  €0.105 million - residual payments  
8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Once-off payment  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
 
 Not considered to have any impact on trade. 
 13. B
IO-ENERGY SCHEME  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
 Bio-Energy Scheme 
 G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 16  
 
  2. Period under review
 
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The Scheme provides aid to farmers to grow mi scanthus and willow for use in the bio-energy 
market.  The objectives of the Scheme are to incr ease production of these crops, encourage alternative 
land use options and provide opportuni ties for farm diversification. 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
  The legal basis is Article 56(4) and 90(a) of Council Regulation (EC) No. 1782/2003, as 
amended, establishing common rules for direct s upport schemes under the common agricultural policy 
and establishing certain support schemes for farmers. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The Scheme is nationally funded under the National Development Plan 2007-2013. 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 Farmers receive a grant to cover 50 per cen t of establishment costs.  Aid is paid in 
two instalments - 75 per cent on establishment and 25 per cent in the year following establishment. 
 7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 The maximum aid is €1,450 per hectare.  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Two years 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade.  
14. N
ATIONAL ENERGY CROP PREMIUM  
1. Title of subsidy  
  National Energy Crop Premium  2. Period under review
 
 
 2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The objective of the premium is to improve  the profitability and increase production of 
energy crops.   G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 17 
 
 
  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
  The premium is paid under Commission Regula tion (EC) No 1535/2007 on the application of 
Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty to de minimis  aid in the sector of agricultural production. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The premium is nationally funded under the National Development Plan 2007-2013. 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 Paid as a top-up to farmers who qualify for the EU Energy Crops premium.  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 €80 per hectare subject to a maximum ceiling of  37.5 hectares per applicant over three years. 
 8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Paid on an annual basis to the end of 2009.  
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade.  15. K
ERRY CATTLE PREMIUM SCHEME  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Kerry Cattle Premium Scheme  2. Period under review
 
 
 2007 
 3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  The object of the Scheme is to encourage the maintenance of a number of separate herds of 
Kerry Cattle in Ireland and the creation and maintena nce of a sufficient reserve of pure bred breeding 
stock.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  The Kerry breed is an exclusively Irish species of livestock with certain qualities that 
facilitated its development in an adverse environment (poor nutrition, poor quality land etc.).  It has a 
relatively good milk yield for its size and feed inta ke.  Consequently the conservation of this species 
of livestock as a pool of genetic mate rial was considered prudent, for future scientific research and 
development of breeds suitable for specific Irish conditions.  
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The level of premium is €76.18 per calf.  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 18  
 
  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  An applicant is eligible for participation in the scheme if:   - He or she is a member of the Kerry Cattle Society Ltd; 
 
 - his or her herd is located within the te rritory of the State and contains at least 
five breeding females register ed in the Herd book of the Kerry Cattle Society Ltd; 
  - all Kerry cows in the herd are served by bulls of the Kerry breed, either by natural 
service or artificial insemination; 
  - all progeny of Kerry cows in the he rd are submitted for birth notification or 
registration in the Kerry Cattle Herd Book; 
 
 - each animal, on which premium is being app lied for, was born in the applicant's herd 
and is alive on the date of application. 
  Payment is made directly by the Department of  Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to applicants 
who meet the above criteria.  
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  €29,177  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 1982 to date.  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade. 
 
16. N
ATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2007-13:   IMPROVEMENT IN CATTLE BREEDING  
1. Title of subsidy  
  National Development Plan 2007-13 :  Improvement in Cattle Breeding 
 
2. Period under review
 
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 To finance development work by the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) on cattle breed 
improvement programmes.  To provide computer hardware and development of suitable software 
systems and the upgrading of recording/testing facilities and equipment by ICBF.  The provision of computer hardware and the purchases and/or deve lopment of software systems for other industry 
organizations for upgrading cattle  registration, recording and data processing systems and the 
upgrading of recording/testing facilities and equi pment by those organisations.  These systems 
provide relevant and accurate data  through the most efficient and effective communications linkage to 
the main ICBF system operating on breed improvement programmes.  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 19 
 
 
   
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
  Funding provides for expenditure on activities centred on breed improvement in the cattle 
sector.  It is funded by the Irish Government  under the National Development Plan 2007-2013. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct payment to ICBF  
6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 €1,014,785.79  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Ongoing 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade.  
17. G
INA CATTLE BREEDING  
1. Title of subsidy  
  GinA Cattle Breeding  2. Period under review
 
 
 2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 Since the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF ) was established, there has been an ongoing 
transfer of functions (genetic evaluations, A.I.  approvals, Central Perfo rmance Testing Station - 
Tully) and their associated costs from the Department  to ICBF.  The subsidy is towards the costs to 
ICBF of taking over pre-existing major functions fr om the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and 
Food.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  Government Decision S29854 of 21 May 1997 approved the active participation of this 
Department in ICBF and the provision of support/grant assistance to that organization.  
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct payment to ICBF  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 20  
 
  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 €888,000  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 Ongoing 
 9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade. 
 
18. I
MPROVEMENT OF EQUINE BREEDING INFRASTRUCTURES  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Improvement of Equine Breeding Infrastructures  
2. Period under review
 
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 To maximize the potential of horse breed ing and production as a viable farm or 
supplementary farm enterprise.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 This scheme is a sub-Measure under the Regi onal Operational Programmes for the Border 
Midland and Western Region and the Southern and Eastern Region, and is funded by the Irish Government under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. 
 5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Grant aid is provided to an equine research institute which carries out research into equine 
diseases.  Grant aid is also provided for technical assistance to Stud Book Operators and for the collection, distribution and exchange of equine information within Ireland and internationally. 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 2007:  €0.487 million 
  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 21 
 
 
  8. Duration of the subsidy  
  2001-2006 Annual Payments  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
 
 Nil effect  19. E
QUINE INFRASTRUCTURES  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
 Equine Infrastructures  2. Period under review
 
 
 2007 
 3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  To maximize the potential of horse breeding and production, support will be provided to 
ensure continued improvement in quality through breeding improvement and development actions. 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  This Scheme is a sub-measure under the En terprise, Science and Innovation Priority, 
sub-programme Competitiveness of Agriculture & F ood and is funded by the Irish Government under 
the National Development Plan 2007-2013. 
 5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Grant aid is provided to an equine research institute which carries out research into equine 
diseases.  Grant aid is also provided for technical assistance to Stud Book Operators and for the 
collection distribution and exchange of equine information within Ireland and internationally. 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  National Exchequer 
 
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  2007:  €0.381 million  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 2007-2013 Annual Payments  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
 
 Nil effect 
 G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 22  
 
  20. E
QUINE QUALITY SCHEME (BMW ) 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Equine Quality Scheme (BMW)  
2. Period under review
 
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 To maximize the potential of horse breed ing and production as a viable farm or 
supplementary farm enterprise.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 This Scheme is a sub-measure under the Re gional Operational Programme for the Border 
Midland and Western Region, and is funded by the Irish Government under the National 
Development Plan 2000-2006.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Subsidies take the form of direct payments to farmers in some instances and also grant 
payments to the Irish Horse Board as a contributio n to the costs associated with organizing equine 
competitions and to the costs of  prizes awarded to horse owners. 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided  
  National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 2007: €0.053 million 
 8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  2001-2006 Annual Payments - Final payments 2007 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  No distortion to trade occurs as a result of this subsidy.  The aim of the scheme is to 
encourage breeders to breed equines more selectively by awarding prizes and pedigree status to stallions and mares that perform better in competitions. 
 
21. E
QUINE QUALITY SCHEME (S&E) 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Equine Quality Scheme (S&E) 
  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 23 
 
 
  2. Period under review  
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 To maximize the potential of horse breed ing and production as a viable farm or 
supplementary farm enterprise.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 This Scheme is a sub-measure under the Regi onal Operational Programme for the Southern 
and Eastern Region, and is funded by the Irish Government under the National Development Plan 
2000-2006.  
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Subsidies take the form of direct payments to farmers in some instances and also grant 
payments to the Irish Horse Board as a contributio n to the costs associated with organizing equine 
competitions and to the costs of  prizes awarded to horse owners. 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 2007: €0.029 million  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  2001-2006 Annual Payments – Final payments 2007 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  No distortion to trade occurs as a result of this subsidy.  The aim of the scheme is to 
encourage breeders to breed equines more selectively by awarding prizes and pedigree status to 
stallions and mares that perform better in competitions. 
 22. H
UMAN RESOURCES (INTERNATIONAL EQUINE INSTITUTE ) 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Human Resources (International Equine Institute) 
 
2. Period under review
 
  2007  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 24  
 
  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  To accelerate the development of the equine indu stry in all its facets by providing education 
and training opportunities to satisfy the needs of ne w entrants and those al ready involved in the 
equine and related industries. 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  This Scheme is a sub-measure under the En terprise, Science and Innovation Priority, 
Education and Training Measure and is funde d by the Irish Government under the National 
Development Plan 2007-2013. 
 5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct Payment to IEI 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 2007: €0.333 million  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 2007-2013 Annual Payments 
 9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Nil effect  
23. A
SSISTANCE FOR THE NON-THOROUGHBRED HORSE INDUSTRY  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Assistance for the Non-Thoroughbred Horse Industry  
2. Period under review
 
  2007  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 To promote and develop the Sport Horse Industry 
 4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  After the wind up of Bord na gCapall (a Stat e sponsored body responsible for the Sport Horse 
Industry and the Sport Horse Studbook) the Irish Horse Board (IHB) (a cooperative body) was 
established to carry out this role.  Since its incepti on the Department of Agriculture and Food has paid 
an annual grant to the IHB to assist it in meeting its functions.  The Irish Horse Board has now been 
integrated into Horse Sport Ireland (HS I) and these monies are now paid to HSI.  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 25 
 
 
   
5. Form of the subsidy  
  Direct payment to the IHB & HSI  
6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 2007: €1.60 million  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 Ongoing 
 9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Nil effect  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 26  
 
  II. PROGRAMMES 2008 
1. S
CHEME FOR THE COLLECTION OF RUMINANT FALLEN ANIMALS  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Scheme for the Collection of Ruminant Fallen Animals 
 
2. Period under review
 
  2008  
3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  The Scheme aims to underpin and further impr ove the existing infrastructure for fallen animal 
collectors, to maximize the number of fallen an imals being collected, to integrate fully with 
BSE requirements, to minimize the use of licen sed burial and to provide additional important 
environmental benefits. 
 4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  European Communities (Kn ackery) Regulations, 1996 
 S.I.  No. 396 of 1996 
 Regulation (EC) No. 1774/2002 
 S.I.  No. 273/2002  S.I.  No. 248/2003  5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Payment to animal collectors and to rendering companies  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  Licensed animal collectors are paid by farmers and by the State for the collection of fallen 
bovine animals.  The State also subsidizes 100 per cent of the cost of rendering and destruction of 
bovine fallen animals and approximate ly 63 per cent of the cost of rendering and destruction of other 
non-bovine fallen animals.  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 €26,734,438  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  There are no time-limits attached to the subsidy. 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade.   G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 27 
 
 
  2. SCHEME OF GRANT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ORGANIC SECTOR - OFF FARM 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Scheme of Grant Aid for the Development of the Organic Sector-Off Farm  
2. Period under review
 
  2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The aim of the Scheme is to facilitate the deve lopment of the organic sector so as to ensure a 
regular supply of high quality organic produce to the market.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 The Scheme is approved as an alternativ e enterprise sub-measure under the National 
Development Plan 2007-2013.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Financial assistance is directed towards projects which: 
  - Improve the organic sector and provide the producers of the basic product with an 
opportunity of enhancing income; 
 - help to guide production in line with fo reseeable market trends or encourage the 
development of new outlets for agricultural products; 
 - help to improve production, handlin g and preparation of organic produce; 
 - facilitate the adoption and application of new technologies;  - help to ensure the adoption of "best practice" within the organic.  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 This Scheme will provide financial assistance in respect of approved 
investments/development projects as follows:  devel oping facilities for preparation, grading, packing, 
storage, distribution, or the sale of organic products as part of a wider organic operation.  
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  The grant aid is payable at 40 per cent of th e eligible cost.  However the maximum subsidy 
payable for off-farm investment is €500,000 over the duration of the Scheme (up to 2013).  Projects 
costing less than €1,500 will not be eligible for grant assistance.  
8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Subsidies are made as one-off payments on certa in investments.  Applicants are entitled to 
apply for several payments of subsidies on differe nt investments subject to the maximum ceiling. 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade. G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 28  
 
  3. S
CHEME OF GRANT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ORGANIC SECTOR -ON FARM 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Scheme of Grant Aid for the Development of the Organic Sector-On Farm  
2. Period under review
 
  2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The aim of the Scheme is to facilitate the deve lopment of the organic sector so as to ensure a 
regular supply of high quality organic produce to the market.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 The Scheme is approved as an alternativ e enterprise sub-measure under the National 
Development Plan 2007-2013.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Financial assistance is directed towards projects which: 
  - Improve the organic sector and provide the producers of the basic product with an 
opportunity of enhancing income; 
 
 - help to guide production in line with fo reseeable market trends or encourage the 
development of new outlets for agricultural products; 
  - help to improve production, handlin g and preparation of organic produce; 
  - facilitate the adoption and application of new technologies; 
 
 - help to ensure the adoption of "best practice" within the organic.  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 This Scheme will provide financial assistance in respect of approved 
investments/development projects on agricultura l holdings, including equipment and facilities for 
production, preparation, grading, packing, storag e, distribution and/or sale of organic products. 
 7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 The grant aid is payable at 40 per cent of th e eligible cost.  However the maximum subsidy 
payable for on-farm investment is €60,000 over the duration of the Scheme (up to 2013).  Projects 
costing less than €1,500 will not be eligible for grant assistance.  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 Subsidies are made as one-off payments on certa in investments.  Applicants are entitled to 
apply for several payments of subsidies on differe nt investments subject to the maximum ceiling. 
  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 29 
 
 
  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy  
  Not considered to have any impact on trade.  4. N
ATIONAL SCHEME OF INSTALLATION AID (OPARDF 1994-1999) 
1. Title of subsidy  
  National Scheme of Instal lation Aid (OPARDF 1994-1999) 
 2. Period under review
 
 
 2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 Support provided to encourage the installation of well trained young farmers. 
 4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  The Scheme is administered by the Depart ment of Agriculture, Fisheries & Food and is 
funded by the National Exchequer. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct payment to the farmer  
6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  A flat premium of €7,110.53 is paid on appr oval of a valid application for payment. 
 7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 2008:  €0.007 million 
 8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Once-off payment 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  No details available  5. S
CHEME OF INVESTMENT AID IN ALTERNATIVE ENTERPRISES (HOUSING /HANDLING 
FACILITIES ) (NDP 2000-2006) 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Scheme of Investment Aid in Alterna tive Enterprises (Housing/Handling Facilities) 
(NDP 2000-2006) 
 G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 30  
 
  2. Period under review
 
  2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The objective of the Scheme is to promote and maintain agricultural en terprises not in surplus 
by providing grant aid to farmers for investment  in housing/handling facilities for horses, deer, 
rabbits, goat and other acceptable non-quota species.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  This Scheme is a sub-Measure under the Re gional Operational Programme for the Border, 
Midland and Western Region and the Southern and Eastern Region and is funded by the Irish Government under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct payment to the farmer.  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 Payment of grants, up to a maximum investment  eligible for grant aid of €31,743 per holding, 
on approval of a valid application for payment.  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 2008:  €0.91 million  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Once-off payment 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  No details available  
6. D
EPOPULATION GRANT  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Depopulation Grant  2. Period under review
 
 
 2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 A farmer whose herd is depopulated (totally or pa rtially) in the interest of the control of TB or 
Brucellosis may qualify for Depopulation Grants.   G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 31 
 
 
  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
  The Scheme is implemented by the Depart ment of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.  
Depopulation Grants are paid for each animal re moved under the depopulation measure and for those 
removed as reactors since the holding was restricted. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The Depopulation Grant Rates applying are as follows:  
 Stable 
 TB Brucellosis 
Animal Rate (€) Standard rate (€) Standard rate (€) 
(i) Dairy cows/in-calf heifers/Pedigree 
bulls > 12 months 228.52 126.97 228.55 
(ii) Other cows/In-calf heifers 126.96 126.97 126.97 
(iii) Other animals 76.16 38.09 76.18 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided  
  The subsidy is paid by the Department direct  to eligible farmers as a headage payment in 
respect of reactor animals removed under the TB and Brucellosis Eradication Schemes. 
 7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 €437,620  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 The subsidy is payable from 1 January to 31 December but applies only during periods of 
restriction.  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
 
 The subsidy is designed to compensate farmer s for lost income arising from the depopulation 
of their herds as a result of disease and does not have any impact on trade. 
 Note
: Bovine Disease Levies – In 2008 farmers c ontributed €5.23 million to the cost of the 
compensation paid under the TB and Brucellosis eradication schemes through the Disease Levies which are collected on cattle slaughter ings/live exports and milk deliveries to 
creameries. 
 7. I
NCOME SUPPLEMENT SCHEME  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
 Income Supplement Scheme 
 2. Period under review
 
  2008  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 32  
 
  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  Income Supplement is payable in cases where a TB or Brucellosis breakdown results in the 
removal of more than 10 per cent of animals in a herd and where depopulation is not deemed 
appropriate. 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  The Income Supplement is in operation since 1 July 1994.  The Scheme is implemented by 
the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.  Payment is in respect of each animal removed as 
a reactor from a herd, subject to a maximum of 100 animals qualifying for payment. 
 5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The rates currently in force are as follows: 
 
 Income supplement monthly rates 
Animal  Stable 
TB Brucellosis  
Rate (€) Rate (€) 
(i) Other cows 38.09 38.09 
(ii) Dairy cows and other animals 25.39 25.39 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided  
  Income Supplement is paid by the Departme nt directly to eligible farmers following 
determination of eligibility. 
 7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  €2,901,125  
8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  The Income Supplement Scheme runs from 1 January to 31 December and applies only during the period of restriction.  
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  The scheme is designed to compensate farmers for losses arising from the removal of reactors 
and does not have any impact on trade.  8. H
ARDSHIP GRANT SCHEME  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Hardship Grant Scheme  2. Period under review
 
 
 2008   G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 33 
 
 
  3. Policy objective of the subsidy  
  The grant is aimed at assisting eligible owne rs/keepers whose holding is restricted due to a 
TB or Brucellosis outbreak.  It is intended to facilitate the purchase of fodder where animals are 
retained and fed during periods of restri ction between 1 November and 30 April. 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  The Scheme is implemented by the Department  of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.  This 
Scheme is designed to alleviate the costs difficulty of some owner/keepers whose holdings are 
restricted on foot of a herd re-test for TB or Bru cellosis and where animals are retained and fed during 
periods of restriction.  Potentially eligible ow ner/keepers must meet certain conditions including 
requirements that they (i) must not have any income from milk sales and (ii) must not have any off-farm income.  
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The subsidy is payable on animals in a restricted herd subject to a maximum payment of up to €250.00 per month for a period not exceeding
 four months within the period 1 November to 30 April. 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 The onus is on eligible owners/keepers to comple te and return the relevant Application Form, 
as entitlement for eligibility can only be  determined from the date of receipt of the application.  Only 
one application for this grant can be made duri ng the relevant period November to April.  The 
hardship grants are paid by the Depart ment directly to eligible farmers. 
 
7. Total amount of subsidy  
  €699,054  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 The Hardship Grant Scheme has been in operation since 1996.  The grant is payable in respect 
of a period not exceeding  four months for the months 1 November to 30 April. 
 9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
 
 The subsidy is designed to compensate farmer s for the additional costs of feeding cattle and 
does not have any impact on trade.  9. O
N-FARM MARKET VALUATION SCHEME (*TB BREAKDOWNS ) 
1. Title of subsidy  
 
 On-Farm Market Valuati on Scheme (*TB breakdowns) 
 2. Period under review
 
 
 2008 
 G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 34  
 
  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  The On-Farm Market Valuation Scheme is th e principal compensation measure available to 
farmers whose herds are affected by TB and Brucello sis.  Payment is made to herd-owners in respect 
of animals removed as reactors. 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  The Scheme is implemented by the Department  of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and is in 
place since 2 April 2002 when it replaced the Reacto r Grant element of the compensation regime.  
The Scheme is notified to the Commission in the disease programme submitted annually in the 
context of EU co-funded schemes, but co-funding was not provided since 2005 in respect of the TB eradication scheme.  Payment is designed to compensate herd-owners for the loss of animals 
removed under the scheme and is based on the Market Value of animals which is the equivalent price 
which might reasonably be obtained for the animal at the time of determination of compensation, 
from a purchaser in an open market, if the animal were  not affected by TB or Brucellosis, subject to 
certain limits applying.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The valuation of animals removed under the On  Farm Market Valuation Scheme is carried 
out by one of a number of suitably qualified inde pendent Valuers approved by the Department.  To 
ensure a uniform application, and ongoing complian ce with all relevant criteria of the scheme, 
summary prices collected by the Department ar e supplied to Valuers each week and on-going 
monitoring of valuations is also carried out by the Department.  Reactor animals are removed for 
slaughter to a designated factory where salvage va lue, as determined by the factory based on a 
competitive tender, is paid directly to the herd -owner.  The scheme allows for a maximum ceiling 
payment of €2,800, inclusive of factory salvage price,  in respect of any individual animals, except in 
the case of one pedigree stock bull per breakdown ep isode where a ceiling of €3,500, inclusive of 
factory salvage price, applies.  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 Payments due in respect of eligible animal s removed, being the differential between the 
market value determined by the valuer (subject to ceilings) and the salvage value paid by the factory, 
are paid by the Department directly to farmers.  
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  €22,846,185  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 Payments under the scheme are made on an ongoing basis for all eligible animals removed 
during the period of restriction of the herd.  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
 
 The scheme is designed to compensate farmers for losses arising from the removal of reactors 
and does not have any impact on trade.  Note
: Payment of subsidies under the On Farm Market  Valuation Scheme apply to animals removed 
under both the TB and Brucellosis Eradication Sc hemes.  Amounts indicated as paid relate to  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 35 
 
 
  only those animals removed under the TB Erad ication Scheme because On Farm Market 
Valuation compensation paid in respect of an imals removed under the Brucellosis Eradication 
Scheme has been partly financed from EU funds. 
 10. S
CHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL 
HORTICULTURE SECTOR  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture sector  
2. Period under review
 
  2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The objective of the Scheme is to assist the deve lopment of the Horticulture Sector by aiding 
investments in specialized capital Plant a nd equipment in Commercial Horticulture. 
 4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 The Scheme was approved under EU State Aid Guidelines in 2007 and is funded by the Irish 
Government under the National Development Plan 2007-2013. 
 5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Direct payment to applicant 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  Direct payment to producers of horticulture produce, towards the capital cost of plant and 
equipment. 
 
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  €5.63 million  
8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  The grant is a once-off payment.  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
 
 The scheme aims to improve the quality of prod ucts and is not considered to have a direct 
impact on trade.  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 36  
 
  11. S
CHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE POTATO SECTOR  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Potato Sector 
 
2. Period under review
 
  2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The objective of the Scheme is to speed up im provements in the marketing infrastructure of 
the potato sector.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 The Scheme was approved under EU State Aid Guidelines in 2007, N164/07, and is funded 
by the Irish Government under the National Development Plan 2007-2013.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Direct payment to applicant 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  Direct payment to farmers and producers of potatoes, towards the capital cost of providing 
facilities for the storage and marketing of seed and wa re potatoes.  A grant of 40 per cent (50 per cent 
for young farmers) of approved expenditure is paid  to applicants of approved projects and full 
compliance with the terms and conditions of the Scheme.  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
  €677,336 
 8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  The grant is a once-off payment. 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have a direct impact on trade  12. C
APITAL GRANT SCHEME FOR ANIMAL CARCASE DISPOSAL (NDP 2000-2006) 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Capital Grant Scheme for Animal Carcase Disposal (NDP 2000-2006)  2. Period under review
 
 
 2008   G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 37 
 
 
  3. Policy objective of the subsidy  
  The specific objectives of the Scheme are to:   - Help provide a safe means of disposal of animal carcases; 
 - protect lands, watercourses and wate r tables from possible contamination; 
 - minimize disease risk and assist animal traceability.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 This Scheme is a sub-measure under the Re gional Operational Programme for the Border, 
Midlands and Western Region and the Southern and Eastern Region and is funded by the Irish 
Government under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. 
 5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Direct payments to Category  2 Intermediate Plant owners. 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  Payments of grants, up to a maximum of €63,487 in the Border, Midlands and Western 
Region and €50,790 in the Southern and Eastern Re gion, to pre-approved Ca tegory 2 Intermediate 
Plant owners.  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 2008:  €0.114 million - residual payments 
 8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Once-off payment  
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade.  13. B
IO-ENERGY SCHEME  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Bio-Energy Scheme  2. Period under review
 
 
 2008 
 3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  The Scheme provides aid to farmers to grow mi scanthus and willow for use in the bio-energy 
market.  The objectives of the Scheme are to incr ease production of these crops, encourage alternative 
land use options and provide opportuni ties for farm diversification. 
 G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 38  
 
  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  The legal basis is Article 56(4) and 90(a) of Council Regulation (EC) No. 1782/2003, as 
amended, establishing common rules for direct s upport schemes under the common agricultural policy 
and establishing certain support schemes for farmers. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The Scheme is nationally funded under the National Development Plan 2007-2013. 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  Farmers receive a grant to cover 50 per cen t of establishment costs.  Aid is paid in 
two instalments - 75 per cent on establishment and 25 per cent in the year following establishment. 
 
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  The maximum aid is €1,450 per hectare.  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 Two years 
 9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade. 
 
14. K
ERRY CATTLE PREMIUM SCHEME  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Kerry Cattle Premium Scheme.  
2. Period under review
 
  2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 The object of the scheme is to encourage the maintenance of a number of separate herds of 
Kerry Cattle in Ireland and the creation and maintena nce of a sufficient reserve of pure bred breeding 
stock.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 The Kerry breed is an exclusively Irish species of livestock with certain qualities that 
facilitated its development in an adverse environment (poor nutrition, poor quality land etc.).  It has a 
relatively good milk yield for its size and feed inta ke.  Consequently the conservation of this species 
of livestock as a pool of genetic mate rial was considered prudent, for future scientific research and 
development of breeds suitable for specific Irish conditions. 
  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 39 
 
 
  5. Form of the subsidy  
  The level of premium is €76.18 per calf.  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 An applicant is eligible for participation in the scheme if:   - He or she is a member of the Kerry Cattle Society Ltd;  
 - his or her herd is located within the te rritory of the State and contains at least 
five breeding females register ed in the Herd book of the Kerry Cattle Society Ltd; 
  - all Kerry cows in the herd are served by bulls of the Kerry breed, either by natural 
service or artificial insemination; 
 
 - all progeny of Kerry cows in the he rd are submitted for birth notification or 
registration in the Kerry Cattle Herd Book and are registered with ICBF and the 
Department through the Animal Events system; 
  - each animal, on which premium is being app lied for, was born in the applicant's herd 
and is alive on the date of application. 
  Payment is made directly by the Department of  Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to applicants 
who meet the above criteria.  
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
   €33,748  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 1982 to date 
 9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade. 
 
15. N
ATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2007-13:   IMPROVEMENT IN CATTLE BREEDING  
1. Title of subsidy  
  National Development Plan 2007-13 :  Improvement in Cattle Breeding 
 
2. Period under review
 
  2008  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 40  
 
  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  To finance development work by the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) on cattle breed 
improvement programmes.  To provide computer hardware and development of suitable software 
systems and the upgrading of recording/testing facilities and equipment by ICBF.  The provision of 
computer hardware and the purchases and/or deve lopment of software systems for other industry 
organizations for upgrading cattle  registration, recording and data processing systems and the 
upgrading of recording/testing facilities and equi pment by those organizations.  These systems 
provide relevant and accurate data  through the most efficient and effective communications linkage to 
the main ICBF system operating on breed improvement programmes. 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  Funding provides for expenditure on activities centred on breed improvement in the cattle 
sector.  It is funded by the Irish Government  under the National Development Plan 2007-2013. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct payment to ICBF  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 €1,237,140.71 
 8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Ongoing  
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade.  16. G
INA CATTLE BREEDING  
1. Title of subsidy  
  GinA Cattle Breeding  2. Period under review
 
 
 2008 
 3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  Since the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF ) was established, there has been an ongoing 
transfer of functions (genetic evaluations, A.I.  approvals, Central Perfo rmance Testing Station - 
Tully) and their associated costs from the Department  to ICBF.  The subsidy is towards the costs to 
ICBF of taking over pre-existing major functions fr om the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and 
Food.  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 41 
 
 
   
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
  Government Decision S29854 of 21 May 1997 approved the active participation of this 
Department in ICBF and the provision of support/grant assistance to that organization. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct payment to ICBF  
6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 €888,000  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Ongoing 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade.  
17. N
ATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2007-13:   IMPROVEMENT IN SHEEP BREEDING  
1. Title of subsidy  
  National Development Plan 2007-13:  Improvement in Sheep Breeding  2. Period under review
 
 
 2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 To finance development work by the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) on sheep breed 
improvement programmes.  The focus of the new sheep-breeding programme is to increase the profitability and sustainability of the national sheep  flock, by improving productivity and reducing the 
costs to the sector, with a clear focu s on the requirements of the market place.  It will also implement 
significant infrastructural changes and modifications to the current system to ensure a viable and 
sustainable sheep breeding st ructure into the future. 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  Funding provides for the provision of consultancy services and technical expertise to the Irish Sheep Industry.  It is funded by the Irish Government under the National Development Plan 
2007-2013. 
 G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 42  
 
  5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct payment to ICBF  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
  €175,839.64 
 8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Ongoing 
 
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Not considered to have any impact on trade.  18. E
QUINE INFRASTRUCTURES  
1. Title of subsidy  
  Equine Infrastructures  2. Period under review
 
 
 2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  To maximize the potential of horse breeding and production, support will be provided to 
ensure continued improvement in quality through breeding improvement and development actions. 
 4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  This scheme is a sub-Measure under the Ente rprise, Science and Innovation Priority, sub-
programme Competitiveness of Agriculture & Food a nd is funded by the Irish Government under the 
National Development Plan 2007-2013.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Grant aid is provided to an equine research institute which carries out research into equine 
diseases.  Grant aid is also provided for technical assistance to Stud Book Operators and for the 
collection, distribution and exchange of equine information within Ireland and internationally. 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 National Exchequer 
  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 43 
 
 
  7. Total amount of subsidy  
  2007:  €1.119 million  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 2007-2013 Annual Payments  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
 
 Nil effect 
 19. I
MPROVEMENT OF EQUINE BREEDING INFRASTRUCTURES  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
 Improvement of Equine Breeding Infrastructures 
 2. Period under review
 
  2008  
3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  To maximize the potential of horse breed ing and production as a viable farm or 
supplementary farm enterprise.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  This Scheme is a sub-measure under the Re gional Operational Programmes for the Border 
Midland and Western Region and the Southern and Eastern Region, and is funded by the Irish Government under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Grant aid is provided to an equine research institute which carries out research into equine 
diseases.  Grant aid is also provided for technical assistance to Stud Book Operators and for the collection, distribution and exchange of equine information within Ireland and internationally. 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 2007:  €0.314 million  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 2001-2006 annual payments - final payments 2008 
 G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 44  
 
  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Nil effect  20. H
UMAN RESOURCES (INTERNATIONAL EQUINE INSTITUTE ) 
1. Title of subsidy  
  Human Resources (International Equine Institute)  2. Period under review
 
 
 2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 To accelerate the development of the equine indu stry in all its facets by providing education 
and training opportunities to satisfy the needs of ne w entrants and those al ready involved in the 
equine and related industries.  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 This Scheme is a sub-measure under the En terprise, Science and Innovation Priority, 
Education and Training Measure and is funde d by the Irish Government under the National 
Development Plan 2007-2013.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 Direct Payment to IEI  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  National Exchequer 
 
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  2008: €0.328 million  
8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  2007-2013 annual payments  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
 
 Nil effect 
 21. A
SSISTANCE FOR THE NON-THOROUGHBRED HORSE INDUSTRY  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
 Assistance for the Non-Thoroughbred Horse Industry 
  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 45 
 
 
  2. Period under review  
  2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 To promote and develop the Sport Horse Industry  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
 
 After the wind up of Bord na gCapall (a Stat e sponsored body responsible for the Sport Horse 
Industry and the Sport Horse Studbook) the Irish Horse Board (IHB) (a cooperative body) was established to carry out this role.  Since its incepti on the Department of Agriculture and Food has paid 
an annual grant to the IHB to assist it in meeting its functions.  The Irish Horse Board has now been 
integrated into Horse Sport Ireland (HS I) and these monies are now paid to HSI. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  Direct payment to the HSI  6. How the subsidy is provided
 
 
 National Exchequer  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 2008: €1.65 million 
 8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Ongoing  
9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  Nil effect  22. T
HE PIGMEAT RECALL SCHEME  
1. Title of subsidy  
  The Pigmeat Recall Scheme.  The scheme implements special measures relating to meat products of animal origin from pigs fo llowing a dioxin contamination in Ireland. 
 2. Period under review
 
 
 2008  3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
 
 To effect the rapid and secure disposal of eligib le product, in order to enable normal pig meat 
processing operations to resume and bring stability to the pigmeat sector.  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 46  
 
  4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  On 6 December 2008, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) recommended that all products from pigs slaughtered in Ireland since 1 September 2008, should be recalled.  The recall 
arose from laboratory analyses that showed the presen ce of dioxins up to 200 times the legal limit in 
Irish pork fat samples.  The Irish Department of Ag riculture, Fisheries and Food determined that the 
source of contamination was a feed ingredient ma nufactured at a plant within the State.  The 
authorities recalled all pork product from anim als slaughtered between 1 September and 
6 December 2008 inclusive in order to reassure consum ers that all products made available after that 
date would be perfectly safe to consume. 
 
 On 11 December 2008, a fund of up to €200 million in financial assistance towards the incurred costs of the recall was agreed between th e State authorities and the pigmeat industry, of 
which €180 million was towards the cost of the pigmeat product recall.  On 24 December, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food pu blished the Pigmeat Recall Scheme.  (Separate 
measures were put in place to deal with the slaughter of affected animals). 
  Commission Decision 643/2008, dated 23 December 2008 approved state aid in respect of the recall of pigmeat products in the sum of €170 million.   European Commission Regulation No. 94 of 2009 of 30 January 2009 adopted a temporary 
exceptional support measure for the pigmeat and cattle market in the form of a disposal scheme in 
Ireland.  The regulation provides co-funding support of up to €10.5 million in respect of the pigmeat 
product, the subject of this return.  5. Form of the subsidy
 
 
 The subsidy is made via direct paym ents and through subsidized services. 
 6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  The subsidy is provided as (1) a direct paymen t to primary and secondary pig processors in 
the State reflecting the value of the affected product, (2) aid in the fo rm of subsidized services for the 
rendering of product, (3) other associated costs arising directly from the recall.  7. Total amount of subsidy
 
 
 Provision has been made for payments of up to €180 million.  During the year in question 
(2008) a total of €34.7 million was paid out.  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
  Approval has been sought to apply a deadline for submission of final applications for 
assistance of 31 May 2009. 
 9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
  While the dioxin issue itself had a negative eff ect on the market for Irish products the subsidy 
has a neutral effect concerning as it does the wit hdrawal and destruction of pig meat products. 
  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
 Page 47 
 
 
  23. THE DIOXIN CULL SCHEME  
1. Title of subsidy  
  The Dioxin Cull Scheme.  The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food introduced the 
destruction scheme to provide for the removal an d slaughter of both pigs and cattle which were 
contaminated by dioxins from the affected holdings  and for the subsequent rendering and destruction 
of carcases and product from the animals concerned under the direction and control of the Minister. 
 2. Period under review
 
 
 2008 
 3. Policy objective of the subsidy
 
  To effect the rapid and secure slaughter and dis posal of pigs and cattle that had been exposed 
to or were suspected of being disposed to contam inated animal feed, in order to enable normal pig 
meat processing operations to resume and bring stability to the pig meat sector. 
 4. Background and authority for the subsidy
 
  On 6 December 2008, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) recommended that all 
products from pigs slaughtered in Ireland since 1 September 2008, should be recalled.  The recall 
arose from laboratory analyses that showed the presen ce of dioxins up to 200 times the legal limit in 
Irish pork fat samples.  The Irish Department of Ag riculture, Fisheries and Food determined that the 
source of contamination was a feed ingredient ma nufactured at a plant within the State.  The 
authorities recalled all pork product from anim als slaughtered between 1 September and 
6 December 2008 inclusive in order to reassure consum ers that all products made available after that 
date would be perfectly safe to consume.   The animal feed plant, and the pig and cattle farms to which it supplie d products, were placed 
under restriction in accordance with standard proc edures.  A decision was taken to remove the 
affected animals on those farms from which positive test results were obtained from the food chain. 
 
 On 11 December 2008, a fund of up to €200 million in financial assistance towards the incurred costs of the recall was ag reed between the State authorities and the meat industry, of which 
an estimated €20 million was to cover the compensa tion, slaughter, rendering and destruction of live 
animals that have been, or may have been, exposed to contaminated feed. 
 
 Commission Decision 643/2008, dated 23 December 2008 approved state aid in respect of the recall of pig meat products in the sum of €170 million.   European Commission Regulation 94/2009 of 30 January 2009 adopted a temporary exceptional support measure for the pigs that had been  on farms that used contaminated animal feed 
between 1 September 2008 and 6 D ecember 2008 and cattle that remain on farms where samples from 
other cattle have tested positive for elevated levels  of dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).  
These temporary exceptional measures were in the fo rm of a disposal scheme in Ireland, and make 
available:  
 - €54.77 per head for not more than 130,000 pigs; 
 - €468.62 per head for not more than 7,000 cattle;  G/SCM/N/186/EEC/Add.13 
Page 48  
 
  for compensation towards the disposal of the animal s referred to in (a) above with a view to the 
slaughtering and full destruction of these animals and their relevant by-products.  The maximum 
EU contribution under the co-funded scheme is €10.4 million.   These animals are the subjects of this return. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy
 
  The subsidy is made through direct pa yments and through subsidized services. 
 
6. How the subsidy is provided
 
  The subsidy is provided as (1) a direct ex-gratia  payment to pig and cattle farmers in the State 
in line with a compensation framework reflecting the ma rket value of the affected animals, and (2) aid 
in the form of subsidized services for the slaughtering and rendering of the animals. 
 
7. Total amount of subsidy
 
  During the year in question (2008) a total of €360,000 was paid out.  8. Duration of the subsidy
 
 
 Approval has been sought to apply a deadline for submission of final applications for assistance of 31 May 2009.  9. Assessment of the trade effect of subsidy
 
 
 While the dioxin issue itself had a negative effect on the market for Irish products, the subsidy has a neutral effect concerning as it does the slaughtering and rendering of animals and the payment of ex-gratia payments to the producers.  
__________