Farmers have been encouraged to check if they are eligible for the Beef Finisher Payment ahead of its deadline on Wednesday 9 September.

The €50m scheme was announced to support beef farmers affected by market disturbance caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association (ICSA) beef chair Edmund Graham said: “The eligibility status of animals can be checked through your adviser or directly via the AgFood portal.

"In particular, I would like to remind farmers who sold factory-type cattle in the mart to check if these animals were slaughtered within 30 days, as these animals can be included for payment.”

Losses

He said while the €50m package was insufficient to cover the total losses incurred by beef finishers, it would go some way to keeping the show on the road for many.

“The application process is simple and I would encourage all those with eligible animals to apply without delay,” he concluded.

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Farmers encouraged to apply for Beef Finisher Payment

While the €50m package is insufficient to cover the total losses incurred by beef finishers, it would go some way to keeping the show on the road for many, the ICSA has said.