.gif)
Increases announced for a range of farmer support measures
The increase relates to the 2026 Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS), the Complementary Redistributive Income Support for Sustainability Scheme (CRISS) and the ECO Scheme, along with flexibilities on requirements associated with certain actions in the Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) and the Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector. These changes come in response to the ongoing challenges that farmers are experiencing due to the current prolonged dry weather conditions.
Announcing the changes, the minister said: “I am acutely aware of the pressures that farmers are experiencing. These were discussed at our meeting with the farm organisations on Tuesday where we also discussed next steps and possible actions that would help to address the challenges being experienced by farmers.”
Responding to calls from the farm organisations for higher advance payments, the minister has announced that the rate of advance payments has increased from 70 per cent to 75 per cent for BISS, CRISS and ECO, the maximum amount possible under EU regulations.
“Farm payments are a critical element of farmers’ income. The increase in the advance payment rate will assist farmers with cash flow, which is of critical importance, particularly to those farmers who are experiencing higher costs at present,” said Minister Heydon.
The National Fodder and Food Security Committee is meeting today (August 21) at the request of Minister Martin Heydon. Convened by its chair, Mike Magan, it is being held today in Teagasc, Oak Park. Commenting, the minister said: “The committee will provide a forum for communicating the latest information on grass production, fodder supply and on crop production on farms as well as ensuring a co-ordinated response, including on advice to farmers in managing the ongoing situation and in ensuring appropriate fodder supplies for the coming winter.”
Responding to the current impacts of the dry weather on livestock farmers, the minister is permitting mowing of lands under six ACRES actions for 2026 from August 21 rather than the normal scheme requirement date of August.
Changes have also been made to the Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector. These changes will allow investments approved under the 2025 and the 2026 Scheme to submit a request to change their currently approved investment item(s) for investments in irrigation equipment. Each applicant is being contacted by email advising them how they can amend their application.