A glitch in the BPS mapping system which resulted in Ecological Focus Area (EFA) features, such as hedges, appearing multiple times has been resolved for new applications.

Last week, a number of advisors reported issues with tillage applications where EFA figures were artificially inflated due to the glitch. Tillage farmers with more than 15ha of arable land are required to set aside 5% of their holding to EFAs.

In a statement to the Irish Farmers Journal, the Department of Agriculture said it was aware of the issue and that a fix was now in place.

For new applications there will not be any duplication of EFA features. For cases already submitted, an update will be applied to remove the duplicates.

Penalties

Advisors called for clarification in cases where the glitch may result in the farmer achieving an EFA figure above 5% when in reality they were below the requirement.

The Department stated: “In a case where an applicant percentage drops below 5% following the removal of duplicates the Department will review the full holding and if any other features are present that were not declared, credit can be given for these.”

It said any financial impact would be determined by the actual percentage of EFA on the holding. The Department added that while it was important farmers declared over 5%, checks were carried out on the EFA features physically present.

Farmers and consultants were advised to assure themselves that EFA features on holdings are eligible.

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Over 80,000 BPS applications lodged

BPS application due 15 May