Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2021
1959. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he is taking to address the threat to penalise local farmers on their area based payments as far back as 2014 due to climate change (details supplied); the urgent need for clarity in advance of submitting their 2021 BPS; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14481/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am acutely aware of the issue being raised by the Deputy. As he will be aware in January 2021, I met with Minister Patrick O'Donovan, Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, and some of his officials on this specific issue. I am well aware of the significant impact on the community that this flooding is having and I endeavour to continue to engage with Minister O'Donovan in relation to this situation.
In terms of farmers submitting their 2021 Basic Payment Scheme application, under the Terms and Conditions of the Basic Payment Scheme, lands declared under the scheme must be eligible for payment by virtue of being suitable for an agricultural activity and to actually be subject to an agricultural activity during the year of application. In particular, the lands declared must be subject to an agricultural activity for a period from the beginning of the year until after 31 May or for a period before 31st May to 31st December of the scheme year in question.
In making their 2021 BPS applications, all farmers should ensure that they only include in their application claimed areas which are eligible for payment. Areas permanently under water during the times specified above are not eligible for payment.
