BPS deadline

IFA deputy president Richard Kennedy has reminded farmers that next Tuesday, 15 May, is the deadline for applications to the Basic Payment Scheme. He urged farmers to make sure they get their applications in as soon as possible as penalties are applied where applications are received late. It is important to allow enough time to complete the application accurately and make sure it is submitted on time.

Bloom discount

IFA members can get a discount on tickets to the Bloom Garden Festival in the Phoenix Park, Dublin. The event, created by Bord Bia, takes place from Thursday 31 May to Monday 4 June. If you book online at www.bloominthepark.com and use the code IFA18 you can get a €2 discount off tickets. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Kids go free as per previous years.

Locally led scheme

IFA national hill chair Flor McCarthy has said it is vital that farmers are the main beneficiaries of the new Pearl Mussel Environment Scheme. He said the role of the farmer is paramount but there is a concern that the locally led schemes are not rewarding farmers sufficiently with a significant amount going into administration.

Flooding

Following the launch of flood risk management plans last week, IFA flood project team chair Padraic Joyce welcomed the increase in the Minor Works Scheme from €3m to €5m annually and new criteria for cost/benefit analysis. He called for a farmyard relocation scheme to be put in place for those who wish to move to land not at risk of flooding. The IFA will be meeting the Minister for the OPW Kevin Moran to follow up on the plans shortly.