Increased bureaucracy and over complicated inspection regimes are leading to long delays in farmers receiving their REPS and AEOS payments, according to Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Agriculture Éamon Ó Cuív.
New figures reveal that almost 1,500 farmers are still waiting for payments, Deputy Ó Cuív said, which was "completely unacceptable and is a direct result of the over complication of both the AEOS and REPS scheme."
"Additional requirements have led to lengthy delays and now farmers are coming under increased pressure because the payments have still not been approved," he said.
“ It is essential Minister Simon Coveney wakes up to the seriousness of this situation and ensures payment is made without delay to these 1,500 farmers. It is unfair to withhold this money for this period of time because of the increased bureaucracy implemented by his officials."
