At least 20% of farmers’ direct payments will be tied to green schemes and environmental actions under proposals for the next CAP struck in Europe this week.

EU agriculture ministers agreed to set aside 20% of farmers’ direct payments for eco-schemes in the early hours of Wednesday. The European Parliament voted for a higher 30% rate.

For Irish farmers, this would see between €237m and €355m ringfenced to environmental schemes. The schemes will be voluntary, but farmers who don’t take part will lose that portion of their BPS.

The EU has suggested a carbon farming scheme, reducing fertilisers and pesticides, and planting native trees

Department of Agriculture models show that a farmer on the average direct payment of €9,385 would lose between €1,900 and €2,850, assuming a flat-rate payment per hectare.

To secure the ringfenced money, farmers will have to undertake more environmental measures. The EU has suggested a carbon farming scheme, reducing fertilisers and pesticides, and planting native trees.

Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue believes farmers are ready to contribute to climate change objectives and improve biodiversity, but stressed the need to properly reward their efforts.

EU agricultural ministers strike late-night CAP deal

Concern CAP deal could see farmers doing more for no extra funding

CAP: 20% of BPS tied to eco-schemes

Ireland will have to allocate between €237m and €355m annually to eco-schemes from the direct payment budget with Council and Parliament negotiators to set the final figure.