Farmers’ charter ‘to herald era of respect’

Farmers can look forward to greater respect in farm inspections and appeals under the new farmers’ charter agreed with the Department of Agriculture, said IFA president Eddie Downey.

The new Charter of Farmers’ Rights has come into effect after meetings between Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney and the major farm organisations. It will remain in place until 2020, coinciding with the EU’s Pillar I and Pillar II farm payment schemes.

Mr Downey said: “In payment targets, inspection protocols and appeals, the charter sets out clear objectives that will underpin the rights of farmers.

"The inspection regime had become a bone of contention for the department and farmers. The charter will go some way to deliver fairness and respect for farm families on inspections and appeals.”

Mr Coveney welcomed the agreement and thanked both sides for their positive engagement over the last number of months.

He said: “The charter is an agreement between both parties on improving the standards and delivery targets for the department’s schemes and services, including on-farm inspections; it brings clarity to inspections, which I am particularly pleased about.”

The document sets out the timelines, application, payment and appeals processes.

ICSA president Patrick Kent said: “A key element is the copper-fastening of a ‘yellow card’ principle for tagging and minor animal ID non-compliance.

There is a recognition that tag loss is inevitable, and on inspection many farmers can rectify missing tags. But this flexibility relates mostly to animals missing just one tag.”