On 23rd January 2020, my Department announced details regarding the continuation of the National Reserve in 2020, with the provision of funding in the region of €3 million. This funding allocation has been met from the natural replenishment of the fund without the requirement for a linear cut to the value of all Basic Payment Scheme entitlements.
Applications under the 2020 National Reserve were available to the two priority categories of ‘young farmer’ and ‘new entrant to farming’. The closing date for receipt of applications was 15th May 2020. My Department is currently processing the applications submitted. Payments to successful applicants under the 2020 National Reserve are scheduled to commence in early December 2020.