Forest cheque payments flowing after computer glitch resolved
Farmers entitled to forestry premia have to return a claim form each year, confirming that they still own the forestry, and that it is being maintained to the required standard, before payment can be made. A Department spokesperson said that 90% of premia for 2006 have now been paid, amounting to €52.7m. Cheques are being issued within ten days of receipt of documentation from applicants.
Some payment difficulties were reported earlier this year in the transition to a new computer system in the forestry section, but the system is now operating effectively.
