Coughlan calls for advance payments

THE deputy president of the Irish Farmers Association, Derek Deane, has called on Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Minister Mary Coughlan to press for an 80% advance payment on single farm payments in mid-October.

He said this early payment is necessary as farmers’ costs are higher due to the very wet summer. It would boost cash flow on farms and provide a much needed confidence boost for livestock farmers.

Mr Deane said the Minister’s Department has confirmed that disadvantaged area payments of €258m to over 100,000 farmers will begin September 21.

In relation to the single farm payment applications made earlier this year, he advised farmers to register with the Department online service.

By so doing, they will be able to view their applications, and if problems are identified they can be rectified in advance of payment.

Food and Horticulture Minister Trevor Sargent said September is a great month for new season Irish fruit and vegetables.

The wet weather, especially during June and July, prevented planting. However, fresh produce planted earlier has now ripened.

“Yields are a bit down, but the harvest is now in with new season, freshly picked locally grown produce in the shops, and the taste is second to none,” he said.

Minister Sargent urged shoppers to watch out for new locally grown produce.