Currently, there are 308 applications for new herd numbers and 434 applications for reactivation of herd numbers awaiting final processing. The waiting time for herd numbers to be allocated is dependent on a number of factors, including the volume of applications received at any given time, the return of fully completed applications, legal documentation and provision of cattle testing and handling facilities. In this context, it should be noted that there was a significant increase in applications this year, associated with the closing date for the Single Payment and Disadvantaged Areas Schemes. Every effort is being made by my Department, in so far as possible, to expedite the processing of applications.
To be eligible under the 2014 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme, applicants are required, among other requirements as specified in the Terms & Conditions governing the 2014 Scheme, to hold a valid herd number issued by this Department, or have applied to their Local DVO for a herd number on, or before, 15 May 2014. Therefore, eligibility under the DAS is not affected once the herd number application has been lodged before this date.