Warning that funding cuts will see hike in Farm Assist applicants

THE Government was warned yesterday that the number of farmers applying for Farm Assist will rocket due to funding cuts in various programmes including the Rural Environment Protection Scheme (REPS).

Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association president Malcolm Thompson said all of the cuts on farm schemes will not raise anything like the money the Government expects as it has failed to account for a rise in social welfare payments to farmers under Farm Assist, he said.

Mr Thompson called on all farmers under financial pressure to apply for Farm Assist. The weekly rates are a maximum €204.30 for an individual plus a further €135.60 for a qualified adult (spouse) plus €26 per child.