Farmers urged to take up assistance
Social and Family Affairs Minister Mary Coughlan, who issued the plea at the national ploughing championships in Ballacolla, Co Laois, said Farm Assist is a financial support specially for farmers.
“It is there to be claimed by any farmer who is experiencing financial difficulties, and especially so in the light of the problems caused by the adverse weather conditions this year,” she said.
Minister Coughlan said she had specifically told officials in her Department to take the loss of income and extra costs that many farmers are experiencing at present, into account when calculating entitlement to Farm Assist.
“Many farmers and their families are encountering financial difficulties at present. In view of these difficulties being experienced, my Department will take account of any loss of income or any additional costs incurred due to the adverse weather conditions.
“This will ensure that the assessment accurately reflects the current situation. I strongly encourage farmers in difficulties to check out Farm Assist. It is there to be claimed,” she said.
Farm Assist was introduced in April 1999 as a separate, stand-alone statutory scheme to replace the ‘Small Holders Unemployment Assistance. It is a means tested payment.
Account is taken of the gross yearly income which the farmer and his or her spouse/partner may reasonably expect to receive from farming or any other self-employment, less any expenses necessarily incurred in carrying on the business. Account is also taken where there are dependent children.
There are almost 8,500 people currently in receipt of Farm Assist. The rate of payment is €118.80 per week. Additional payments are made for dependants.
The Department of Social and Family Affairs has recently made a special video outlining Farm Assist, how it is calculated, who may benefit and how to apply. The video can be viewed at selected venues, such as marts.
