Deal will see 50% of single farm payment distributed six weeks earl

Many farmers can expect to receive part of their single farm payment six weeks early, from Oct 16, following an agreement reached in Brussels yesterday.

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney said commissioner Dacian Ciolos accepted that early payment was necessary given protracted unseasonable weather this year, culminating in a national fodder shortage.

Mr Coveney said: “This will now allow us to make advance payments, at a rate of 50%, to those applicants whose applications are confirmed fully clear, with effect from Oct 16, with balancing payments being made with effect from Dec 1.