A typical 23-hectare farm, in GLAS, with peatland and grassland habitats, could qualify for Hen Harrier Programme payments totalling €2,200 in year one, rising to €3,700 in year two, writes Stephen Cadogn.

Farmers affected by recent bad weather can contact their local Teagasc office for help, or seek advice from the Department of Agriculture through the www.agriculture.gov.ie website, or the animal welfare helplines at 076-1064408 CallSave, or 01-6072379.