Confirmation that AECS will continue

The Scottish Government has released details of the latest application round for the Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS) despite hundreds of farmers still waiting to hear the outcome of their 2017 applications.

Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said the next round of applications for the scheme will open next year.

Speaking at the Royal Highland, Ms Cunningham said applications for agrienvironment, diffuse pollution and organic schemes will open in January, and a round for improving public access is expected to open in March.

She said the 2017 application round was being assessed, and more than 960 rural businesses are expected to be awarded funding of £58 million in due course.

“I am pleased to confirm we will be accepting new applications for the AgriEnvironmental Climate Scheme from January,” she added.

“AECS supports a range of measures which will create a greener and more prosperous environment, including improving water quality, managing flood risk and protecting our iconic species and habitats.

“Crucially, it also supports the aims of our Climate Change Plan by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from farming.”

She urged all farmers, crofters and land managers to consider applying for the scheme to “realise the environmental and economic benefits of low-carbon farming”.

Ms Cunningham also confirmed all payments made under the AECS scheme will be honoured for the full five years.

“I am aware that a hard Brexit would heavily impact sections of Scottish agriculture, including exposing the sector to both high tariffs and loss of subsidy support,” she added.

“Going forward, we want to see a more inclusive approach to Brexit negotiations, which includes Scottish Government at the negotiation table.”

Roseanna Cunningham.