Farm assist is a means-tested scheme providing weekly income support to low-income farmers. The assessment of means for the purpose of qualifying for farm assist is designed to reflect the actual net income, which is calculated as gross income less any expenses necessarily incurred from farming. This is based on normal output and costs appropriate to normal stock levels, capacity and market trends. While the income and expenditure figures for the preceding year are generally used as an indicator of the position, account is taken of loss of income due to exceptional circumstances such as the foot and mouth crisis in 2001 or the adverse weather conditions which effected many farmers early in 2002 so as to ensure that the assessment accurately reflects the current situation.
For the purpose of determining the rate of farm assist payable, deductions are allowed from net income in respect of qualified children, with the balance assessed at 70%. In this regard, the means test is more favourable than the scheme's predecessor, the unemployment assistance scheme for small-holders. In addition, income from the rural environment protection scheme is assessed separately, with the first €2,539 and 50% of the balance disregarded, while 40% of net pay from insurable employment and almost €12,700 of capital are also disregarded.
Significant improvements were announced in budget 2005, which will benefit those on farm assist and other social welfare payments, from January 2005. These include a €14 weekly increase in farm assist for a single person, and up to €23.30 per week for a married person. In addition, the capital disregard in the means assessment will increase from under €12,700 to €20,000, from June 2005.
Currently, almost 8,400 farm assist cases are in payment, receiving an average weekly payment of €145.15. It is considered that the current procedures are effective from the perspective of both policy and administration, in achieving the aim of reflecting the normal level of commercial activity on the farm, while having sufficient flexibility to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
To increase awareness of the scheme, the Department undertook a publicity campaign in 2002 which included radio and press advertising, including specialist farming publications, and the production and showing around the country of a promotional video on the scheme. More generally, the network of social welfare offices throughout the country provides information to members of the public on the range of schemes and services available, including the farm assist scheme. Information leaflets and applications forms for farm assist are available at these offices. In addition, social welfare inspectors in rural areas promote the scheme when meeting the public in the course of their duties.