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New figures have revealed ongoing delays in the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme II (TAMS II).
As of 24 June, over 7,000 applications have been made. However, the latest figures show that 4,328 farmers are still waiting for their applications to be processed.
A further 2,829 farmers who have received approval are still waiting on their payments.
The numbers were revealed in response to a parliamentary question from Charlie McConalogue.
Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed said: “No payments have been made to date. However, it is expected that the computer system to enable applicants to submit payment claims online will be available in the coming weeks.”
The minister had promised previously that a payment system would be in place by 20 July. Presently, there is no functionality on the Department of Agriculture’s website to process applications for grant payments and paper applications are currently not accepted.
Cash flow crisis
Fianna Fáil agriculture Spokesperson Charlie McConalogue said the figures were “completely unacceptable considering the scheme has been open for more than a year”.
He described the delay as “one of the biggest sources of frustration and anger among farmers across the country”.
“Given the severe cash low crisis, market volatility and low prices facing the primary producer, it is absolutely appalling that these payments are still pending.
“The Department claims that IT issues are to blame but this is a ridiculous situation, which is stalling critical funding which is fundamental to the social and economic wellbeing of rural Ireland,” he said.
He called on Minister Creed to expedite payments and process all outstanding applications urgently.
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