There has been much discussion surrounding the introduction of a major agri-environmental scheme in 2023.

Much of the debate to-date has surrounded payment rates and how much of the impending carbon tax will be committed to funding it.

Neither of these questions are answered in the consultation document, with discussions surrounding payment rates highlighting that they will be influenced directly by the actions selected. Results-based actions are said to be capable of achieving higher results.

Farmers located in what are described as co-operation areas, which are essentially specific areas with a high environmental value, will also be eligible to receive additional payments for farm/landscape-type actions.

Scheme targets

The document states the aim of this intervention or measure is to deliver a range of environmental, climate and biodiversity benefits through supporting farmers in undertaking appropriate actions.

The SWOT analysis and needs assessment completed to develop the different interventions for the next CAP is said to have “identified numerous challenges emerging as a result of climate change, the unsustainable use of natural resources and the degradation of habitats. The national agri-environment climate measure accordingly consists of actions to address these biodiversity, water, soil and climate challenges.”

Proposed structure

The scheme will be open to all active farmers. As touched on above, to qualify for higher payments farmers must possess lands with higher environmental priorities. The document says these are currently being defined.

Entry to the scheme will be determined through a ranking and selection process and priority access will be provided to organic farmers, farmers with priority assets such as being located in a critical source area for water or priority habitats and farmers who agree to undertake specific priority actions.

It is envisaged that there will be local or area-specific measures that build on the success of the Burren Programme and the European Innovation Partnership – AGRI Groups delivered under the RDP 2014-2020.

“The scheme will take a landscape approach, and may mean that farmers in areas identified by the Department as having higher environmental priorities will participate in specific co-operation actions. Such actions may attract higher payments depending on the actions required. Any additional bespoke farm/landscape measures required will be implemented with the assistance of a local project team at local level.”

Landscape approach

Expanding on this, the document says the co-operation element will “support a landscape approach in these areas for the management and restoration of priority habitat/species, carbon storage, water quality, and biodiversity through improved land management and resilience. It is also expected to positively impact on problems facing these landscapes, for example landslides, flooding, mountain fires, management of commonages, invasive species, predator control, etc.”

Significant tree-planting measures will be included, including agro-forestry and riparian planting. Mandatory planting of broadleaf trees on some farms may also be included.