Timely SFP roadshow could help solve your problems
The unique complexity of the SFP as it is operated in Ireland has led to many problems for farmers.
We are now into phase two of the SFP, with farm sales, leasing, transfers, inheritance, clawbacks and the use-it-or-lose-it clause creating a minefield of problems and triggering more and more anomalies and queries.
Paud Evans, in charge of operating the SFP scheme in Ireland, has a difficult task.
Farmers are terrified of making a mistake which could result in a substantial income penalty.
Getting the information they need has proved to be quite a learning curve. One farmer admitted that having gone the rounds of five officials in his local Department of Agriculture office he was more confused than when he started.
Long stretches holding the phone to help lines have exhausted the patience of many farmers.
So the Department of Agriculture’s roadshow on the SFP which got on the road this week is a welcome initiative, including at least one meeting in each county up to the beginning of May.
The 6pm starting time is hardly suitable for most busy farmers, but the opportunity of one-to-one sessions with officials could be very beneficial.
Check out the press for details of meetings, and don’t forget the most important date of all: Friday, May 4 deadline for SFP applications.
