The stocking density requirements for the 2022 ANC scheme have been altered, the Department of Agriculture has confirmed.

In a letter circulated to all ANC scheme participants, the Department stated that the stocking density requirement will be calculated on the maximum eligible area (MEA) submitted rather than on the claimed area.

“With effect from the 2022 [ANC] scheme year, the minimum stocking density requirement will be calculated based on the total maximum eligible area (MEA), rather than on the claimed area,” the Department said.

Review

“Applicants are therefore urged to review their stocking levels to ensure they meet the minimum required stocking density,” it added.

The MEA is the total maximum eligible area in a particular parcel on which a farmer can claim ANC payments.

However, in some instances, farmers may have claimed a lower area in a parcel due to features that could possibly render ground ineligible.

The minimum stocking density for the ANC scheme is 0.15 LU/ha. This stocking rate must be achieved for at least seven months of the year and must be a baseline average for the entire year.

It is advisable that all farmers review their stocking rates to ensure they meet the scheme criteria

Reacting to the ANC changes, the Irish Natura and Hill Farmers' Association (INHFA) urged farmers to review their stocking rates to ensure they are in line with the revised requirements.

“While in most cases any difference will be very small, it is advisable that all farmers review their stocking rates to ensure they meet the scheme criteria.

"[The] INHFA is advising farmers to discuss this issue with their farm advisers prior to making their ANC application,” said INHFA president Vincent Roddy.

“We are also conscious that there may well be some farmers, albeit a very small number, with 'naked acres' and for these farmers it is vital that they get accurate advice, either from their adviser or the Department,” he added.

The Department said that the stocking rate changes were introduced following a determination of the European Court of Auditors.

Tillage lands which are payable in designated areas under the scheme will not be subject to the new ANC stocking requirements or will not be taken into account when calculating stocking densities.