Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring has welcomed confirmation by the Minister for Agriculture, Simon Coveney, that Disadvantaged Area Scheme payments of €125 million will begin on time this week. Some 60,000 farming families will receive the payments this week.
“I am delighted that payment runs for the Disadvantaged Area Scheme will commence today, and continue twice weekly, with payments being made as they become eligible. This scheme will benefit over 60,000 farming families nationally and will be of significant benefit to farmers in Mayo. This Government is aware of the importance of cash-flow for farmers, particularly those on low incomes, and is responding accordingly. Farmers who qualify for the scheme should receive their payment this week.”
He continued: “I am delighted that Minister Coveney has also confirmed that arrangements are well advanced and on target to allow payment of the 50 per cent advance of the Single Payment, with effect from October 16, following the EU Agriculture Commissioner’s positive response to Ireland’s request for the payment to be brought forward. By once again facilitating the on time payment of the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme and consistently negotiating an advance payment of the Single Farm Payment, this Government has shown that it is in tune with the challenges that farmers are facing.”
Ring concluded: “The Disadvantaged Area Scheme has been a major factor in keeping farmers farming. It has contributed hugely to the maintenance of a viable rural community and economy. Indeed, most of the payments from the scheme will be spent locally.”
