EU fine decision within six weeks

Farmers received €50 million too much in direct payments from 2008 to 2012, inclusive, according to a Department of Agriculture investigation.

However, the EU Commission has proposed a 2% flat rate financial correction for Ireland of €181.5m, arising from its audits of payments from 2008 to 2012.

The Commission and the Department are discussing the matter, with a view to reaching an agreed settlement, which is expected in the next month to six weeks, according to Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney.