Drought leads to advance payments

THE prolonged drought in parts of Europe has led to the EU agreeing to an increased level of advance payments to farmers under the 2003 EU bovine livestock schemes.

It provides for advance payments of 80% in all member states under the special beef, suckler cow and slaughter premiums and national envelope schemes. The normal advance rate is 60%.

Payments for the 2003 schemes are due to commence from October 16.