Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine, Charlie McConalogue has confirmed the funding has been allocated for the National Reserve in 2021.
He welcomed the recommendation made by the Direct Payments Advisory Committee regarding the continuation in 2021.
Minister McConalogue said: “I welcome the agreement reached by the group in terms of funding for the National Reserve. The Securing of the National Reserve for 2021 is a very important step in supporting the most productive and ambitious farmers in the country.”
The decision comes after consultation between the Department and the Direct Payments Advisory Committee, comprising of members of the main farming bodies and agricultural advisory services.
The EU regulations, underpinning the operation of the National Reserve, provide for priority access mandatory categories of ‘Young Farmer ‘and ‘New Entrant to Farming.’
Successful applicants to the National Reserve receive an allocation of entitlements at National Average value or a top up to the National Average value on entitlements that are below the national average.
“Giving priority access to Young Farmers and New Entrants ensures that we are continuing to support and encourage generational renewal in our sector.”
Full details will be available when the scheme opens in February 2021. The closing date for receipt of applications will be 17 May 2021.
LSL News.