Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 July 2021
3398. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to ensure that all participants in the sheep welfare scheme are provided with a later reference year that reflects the full up to date level of activity on their farm. [40171/21]
View answerThe Sheep Welfare Scheme was launched in December 2016 and provides a valuable support to farmers for undertaking actions which make a positive contribution to flock welfare. The scheme was initially set-up as a four year scheme, which was renewable annually. The initial four year period expired on the 31st of January 2021. An allocation of an additional €17m in funding was provided in Budget 2021 to extend the scheme for a fifth year as we enter the transitionary period ahead of the introduction of the new Common Agricultural Policy.
An amendment to the RDP was required to give affect to the extension of the Sheep Welfare Scheme for a fifth year. A change to the reference period was also provided for in this amendment. Updating the reference year from the original 2014/2015 reference year is an important step in supporting progressive and expanding sheep farmers. I have listened to farmers in this regard and I am happy to confirm that the reference period will be updated.
