Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 June 2023
940. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide an update on the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme; how many applications have been received for the scheme and how many have been approved; the amount of payments that have been made under the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27306/23]
View answerThe objective of the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP) is to provide support to suckler and beef farmers to improve the environmental sustainability of the national beef herd. The programme aims to build on the gains delivered in recent years through the Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP) and the Beef Environmental Efficiency Programme (BEEP) by improving the genetic merit of the Irish suckler herd. I am confident that SCEP will drive further improvements in our already world-class suckler and beef herds. It will also be a crucial income support for these farmers.
The online applications system for SCEP opened on 20 March 2023 and closed on 22 May 2023. There is a 25-calendar day period after 22 May 2023 closing date during which late applications are accepted with a reduction in payment of 1% per working day. Applications received after the 25 days period are ineligible.
As of 31 May 2023, there were 20,679 applications received under SCEP. Applications are not deemed approved until they meet the eligibility criteria. Payments for scheme year one will commence in December 2023.
