BPS application process for farmers and advisors opened

FARMERS across the north and mid- Cork regions have been advised the application process for the 2021 Basic Payments Scheme (BPS) and the Greening Scheme has commenced.

For the fourth year in succession, following a change in EU regulations in 2018, the packs will not contain a hard copy form, with all applications having to be made online.

A spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine said that over the coming days farmers will receive a BPS information pack containing the terms and conditions of the scheme as well as maps and land details.

“The information contained within the pack being sent to farmers will assist them in making their application,” said the spokesperson.

While closing date for BPS applications is Monday, May 17 , farmers and advisors have been urged to avail of the early opening of the application process now rather than waiting until nearer the closing date.

The department spokesperson stressed that all elements of the Direct Payments Schemes - BPS, Greening, Young Farmers Scheme, National Reserve, Transfer of Entitlements, and the Areas of Natural Constraint Scheme were now online.

“This helps to ensure that the Department can process all applications under these schemes as efficiently as possible. As in recent years, the Department will be providing a full range of supports for farmers to ensure the are in a position to apply for these important payments, details of which will be available shortly,” said the spokesperson.

“All farmers will be also be notified over the coming week of the value of their payment entitlements through agfood.ie. Farmers may note that this year there will be a reduction of 2.05% in order to respect the national direct payments ceiling on foot of the agreement reached on the EU Budget in late 2020.”

Farmers wishing to contact the Department with queries relating to registering at www.agfood.ie, such as lost passwords and the registering process, can contact 0761 064424. Those registered and still needing help to complete their BPS application or requesting a hard copy of the Terms and conditions can contact 0761 064420.