Commenting, Minister McConalogue stated: “I am delighted to confirm these important payments are now issuing to tillage farmers. Under SIM, over €10.6 million will be paid to approximately 2,400 tillage farmers. This is an increase from 1,800 tillage farmers paid almost €8 million at this stage in 2022. Based on its success since its introduction, I have decided to include the Straw Incorporation Measure is included in Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan, with a commitment to run an annual scheme for the next five years in 2023-2027. This clearly underlines mine and the Government’s long-term commitment to the tillage sector in Ireland.”
He added: “I am also happy to announce that payments of over €3.2 million have commenced under the Protein Aid supports to some 1,000 farmers. In March 2022, arising from the situation in Ukraine, I guaranteed a payment of €300 per hectare for the protein crops. I also put in place the Protein/Cereal Mix Crop Scheme, to support farmers growing mixed crops.”
“Both schemes have proven to be really popular with tillage farmers in 2022, while also contributing to the long-term sustainability of the tillage sector. In 2023, I have provided a €10 million budget for the Straw Incorporation Measure and I have more than doubled the annual budget for Protein Aid from €3 million to €7 million under the CAP Strategic Plan.”
Payments will be visible in farmers’ bank accounts in the coming days.