EU agrees to roll out 50% of Single Farm Payment in October

Farm groups have welcomed the European Commission’s decision to agree to an early roll out in October of 50% of the 2012 Single Farm Payment, following talks with Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney.

While Irish farmers had hoped Brussels might agree to calls for a 70% roll out, they have welcomed the move to pay out €600m in October, with another 50% to follow in December.

IFA president John Bryan welcomed the EU clearance for the advance payment, which he said would be a major boost to cash flow in a dreadful year weather-wise.