Extra week for BDGP applications

Beef farmers have until next Friday, June 5, to submit applications for the Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP), as Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney has extended today’s deadline by a week.

ICSA president Patrick Kent has welcomed the extension. He hopes the extra week will give enough time to the Department of Agriculture to clarify concerns raised by farmers, primarily relating to penalties for any early exit from the six-year contract, and to the quality targets for animals.

“The extension is a recognition that there hasn’t been enough time to fully explain the scheme and its possible ramifications to farmers,” said Mr Kent. “We are asking the minister to use this extra time to resolve all concerns which are preventing farmers from applying, particularly the six-year contract, issues around star-ratings and unannounced inspections.”