“GLAS and AECM payments are a critically important part of farmers’ incomes. It is essential that all applicants under all tranches receive a payment in 2023 and the scheme cannot be limited to 50,000 participants.” This is according to IFA rural development chair, Michael Biggins who has voiced his concerns regarding the new Agri-Environment Climate Measure (AECM). According to Biggins the IFA is calling on the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue to ensure that every farmer will receive a payment under environmental schemes in 2023.
At present the AECM is planned to be opened in at least two tranches; one is scheduled to open in quarter four this year with participation commencing in January 2023; and tranche two which is open for application in quarter four next year with participation commencing in early 2024. The AECM will see eight identified areas receiving a payment of up to €10,500 with an average payment of €7,400, and would participate through co-operative project teams.
The IFA Chair says that the funds could be paid upfront in 2023 for tranche two participants, or, if that is not feasible, the 12,000 Green, Low-Carbon Agri-Environment Scheme (GLAS) three participants must be rolled over for 2023. Biggins says that there are not enough details available to help farmers prepare for the scheme which is due to open for applications this year.
LSL News.