Disadvantaged 0.15 lu/ha limit stays in place for 2012
It is proposed to continue with the minimum of 0.15 livestock units in respect of 2012, calculated over the 12 months of the scheme-year, and over a retention period of six months with at least 0.15 units. Specific provisions will be made for farmers where stocking density was less than 0.3 units in 2011 as a result of adherence to agri-environmental measures.
These changes announced in the context of the December Budget have been submitted to Brussels, and the European Commission’s response is expected shortly.
Provision will be made for force majeure/exceptional circumstances, and for new entrants to farming.
According to Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney, increasing number of applicants in the scheme have discontinued cattle or sheep farming and continue to benefit from aid by grazing some horses on their land.
It is now proposed that horses will no longer be eligible for the stocking density calculation, on the basis that these applicants’ contribution to the rural economy is minimal. However, equine breeding enterprises will continue to be eligible, on the basis of the contribution they make to the local economy.
It is also proposed to exclude applicants, whose main holding is in a non-Disadvantaged Area, and who declare land situated more than 80 kilometres away. It is contended that the local impact in the Disadvantaged Areas of their farming is marginal.
