The Suckler Cow Welfare Scheme was established in 2008 and payments have issued in respect of 2008 and 2009 born animals where the required measures were completed.
Under the 2008 Scheme 656 farmers in County Waterford have been paid to date a total of €1,550,419, in respect of 19,772 animals. Under the 2009 Scheme, 510 applicants have been paid to date a total of €552,105 in respect of 14,183 animals. The rate payable under the 2008 Scheme was €80 per head, whereas, under the 2009 Scheme and subsequent years the rate is set at €40 per head. Payments continue to issue in respect of both 2008 and 2009 born calves as individual cases are cleared.