Clarification on rules for land eligibility will protect farmers’ payments – McLoughlin

“Clarification on the rules for land eligibility under the Direct Payment Schemes will protect farmers’ payments”, says Tony McLoughlin, Fine Gael TD for Sligo Leitrim. Deputy McLoughlin was speaking ahead of an information meeting to take place in the Bush Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon tomorrow (Thursday 30th April) at 8pm.

“Changes to the rules around land eligibility under the new CAP have led to some confusion among farmers and so I am pleased that an information meeting for advisors and consultants on land eligibility is taking place at 8pm tomorrow night in the Bush Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon.

“Farmers’ payments under the Direct Payment Schemes will be protected if there is greater information given and widespread awareness among farmers of what type of land is eligible to include in their applications for the schemes.

“I also welcome the publication by the Minister for Agriculture, Simon Coveney, of a Land Eligibility booklet, which outlines details of the characteristics of the agricultural land that will be deemed in a state fit for grazing or cultivation.

“The booklet on Land Eligibility is currently being issued to all Irish farmers and will also be available on the Department’s website at www.agriculture.gov.ie. Farmers can also call the Department at 076- 1064425 if they have questions around the eligibility of their land.”