The proposed new agri-environment scheme GLAS (Green Low-carbon Agri-environment Scheme) forms part of the new Rural Development Programme which must be submitted to the European Commission for approval. Work is well under way in preparing this submission. My Department is finalising the design of measures, taking account of the most recent round of public consultation, and the independent evaluator has commenced work on the preparation of the ex ante evaluation report, the strategic environmental assessment and the appropriate assessment which form an integral part of the development of the programme.
When the programme is approved by the European Commission the details of new schemes and implementing rules will be finalised and published. It is not possible at this stage to advise on the eligibility or otherwise of any land parcel under the proposed new scheme.