Disadvantaged Areas Scheme Eligibility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 July 2018

Tuesday, 10 July 2018

Ceisteanna (739)

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

739. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the process for a landowner and dry stock farmer to apply for a disadvantaged area payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30779/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Applications for the Areas of Natural Constraint Scheme (formerly the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme) are made annually via the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) application process.  For each year that a farmer wishes to apply they must tick the appropriate box on the online BPS application system.  The application process for 2018 opened in early February with a closing date of 15 May.  Applications are made via my Department's online application system at www.agfood.ie. 

In order to apply for the ANC scheme the applicant must meet a number of eligibility criteria, such as holding a valid herd number and farming at least 3 ha of eligible disadvantaged lands.