The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue has reminded farmers that the deadline for submitting their 2021 Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) applications online is midnight on Monday, May 17th.
This is also the deadline for the related submission of applications for:
- Transfer of Entitlements;
- Young Farmer/National Reserve;
- The Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM);
- The Areas of Natural Constraint Scheme, and
- The Protein Aid scheme.
Department of agriculture helpdesk services:
The department has been helping farmers in making their applications in recent weeks through its telephone helpdesk services.
The helpdesk service telephone number is 0761 06 44 20, and lines will be open for extended hours in the run up to the application date as follows:
- Between 9.15 am and 9.00 pm from Monday, May 10th to Friday, May 14th;
- On Saturday 15thand Sunday, May 16th from 9.30 am to 5.00 pm
- Between 9.15 am and 12 midnight on Monday, May 17th.
The minister commented, “The financial support provided under schemes is a key support for farmers.”
“I urge all farmers to lodge their applications as soon as possible before May 17th deadline. Should any farmer require guidance in making their application, they should ring the department’s helpdesk where a member of staff will be able to assist them.”
In relation to the new Straw Incorporation Measure in particular, the Minister added, “This new €10m measure is an important support for tillage farmers and I would encourage eligible farmers to apply by May 17th deadline.”
Assistance
For assistance on registering for www.agfood.ie as a first step in making an online application, farmers can contact the AgFood Registration Helpdesk on 0761 064424.
They can also contact this phone number should they require assistance to register an agricultural consultant or Teagasc adviser to apply on their behalf.
Applicants should note that they must register for www.agfood.ie as a first step before they can complete their applications. Those who have not yet registered should do this as soon as possible.
For assistance on completing applications online, farmers can contact the Direct Payments Helpdesk on 0761 064420.
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