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A delegation of farmers from Louth and Meath travelled to Department of Agriculture offices in Portlaoise to vent their frustration over delays to their farm payments.
A high number of farmers in the area have not received any payment from the Department and they’ve blamed a new mapping system piloted in the area on delays.
Two carloads of farmers made the journey on Wednesday 18 December and although a small number were paid the day after their journey, many farmers remain disappointed that they will not receive any payment until the new year.
Affected farmers have pointed out the detrimental impact this has on their finances at a time of year when contractor and other farm bills are traditionally settled.
Department response
When asked directly for a response on potential mapping issues in the Louth area, the Department said: “The amendment of mapped areas is an ongoing process throughout the scheme year – for example as up to date ortho-imagery is reviewed, and as the regular updating of the LPIS system continues – to ensure its ongoing accuracy.
“The processing of outstanding cases for payment across counties remains a key priority for the Department.”
Despite a direct question on the subject, the Department did not clarify how many farmers in Louth were affected by payment delays.
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