The Department has written to 712 farmers who appealed the removal of their lands from the new Areas of Natural Constraints (ANC) scheme.

The letters explain why the decision was made to remove the townlands in question and include an appeals form which must be completed and returned to the Department if the farmer still wishes to appeal.

Farmers are advised to respond where they feel the data provided by the Department is not reflective of the situation on the ground.

“Farmers should contact local advisers in their area who can make a case based on information they have,” IFA rural development chair Joe Brady said.

He called on the ANC appeals committee to meet with local groups so that farmers in excluded townlands get an oral hearing in an effort to reverse the decision.

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Over 700 farmers appeal ANC exclusion