Suckler farmers need a more simplified BDGP scheme - Martin Kenny TD

MARTIN Kenny Sinn Fein TD for Sligo, Leitrim, North Roscommon and South Donegal is calling for a more simplified scheme for suckler cow farmers.

Deputy Kenny said;

“Following a number of parliamentary Question’s I asked in relation the Beef Data Genomics Scheme (BDGP) I have been informed that there is 1,035 farmers still waiting on their 2019 BDGP payment. From speaking to a number of farmers in the scheme I understand that the reason for these farmers not getting paid is that the scheme is so complicated that while they are doing their best to comply with the scheme, they have not met the departments requirements.

“I have further been informed that in the last three years the department has deducted almost €4 million penalties under the BDGP. This is further evidence of how complicated this scheme is.

“Over the last number of years the Suckler Cow and Beef farming has being in crisis with the meat factories cutting prices and now we find out that the department was cutting their payments at the same time.

“As I say we need a more simplified scheme for the suckler cow industry, our farmers know good quality cattle they don’t need to be checking star ratings and looking up charts. Our farmers have enough to be doing working the land and producing the best quality beef in the world.”