Beef Data and Genomics Programme cheques in December
A Department of Agriculture spokesperson said: “Payments under the 2016 BDGP will commence in mid-December to those herds who have met a specific minimum level of compliance.
"Pro-rata payments will be made where at least 60% of the data and 80% of genotype samples have been received, and carbon navigator and training courses have been completed. Payments will continue on an ongoing basis thereafter for herds that subsequently become compliant or increase their level of compliance”.
The spokesperson also confirmed that: “Participants in the BDGP will receive full payment in December if full compliance is achieved, and subject to normal administration checks having been passed”.
The six-year beef data and genomics programme is now in its second year, with 24,500 farmers positively engaging with the scheme, according to the Department. “I expect that the 2016 budget of €52m will be fully consumed by year end,” said the Department’s secretary general, Aidan O’Driscoll.
Agriculture Minister Michael Creed has announced an extension to the deadline for BDGP farmers to complete their 2016 carbon navigators.
The minister said: “Due to significant pressures on both farmers and advisors, I have extended the deadline to November 30”.
Recording screens are available on the ICBF website to record data for 2016 born calves. New traits to be recorded for calves born in 2016 are birth size, calf vigour, incidences of scour and pneumonia and dam and stock bull culling reasons.
If you require replacement genotype sample kits for animals that have left your herd or that you are unable to sample, contact ICBF on 1850 625 626.
