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The National Reserve will continue in 2021, opening for online applications in February, Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue has confirmed.
Following consultation between the Direct Payments Advisory Committee, farming bodies and agricultural advisory services, provision will now be made for applications to the National Reserve in 2021.
Successful applicants to the fund will receive an allocation of entitlements at national average value or a top-up to the value on entitlements that are below the national average.
Generation renewal
The EU regulations underpinning the operation of the National Reserve provide for priority access to the mandatory categories of Young Farmer and New Entrant to Farming.
Minister McConalogue said: “The securing of the National Reserve for 2021 is a very important step in supporting the most productive and ambitious farmers in the country.
“Giving priority access to Young Farmers and New Entrants ensures that we are continuing to support and encourage generational renewal in our sector.”
Full details of the operation of the scheme, including terms and conditions, will be available when the scheme opens for online applications in February. this will coincide with the opening of online Basic Payment Scheme applications.
It is expected that the terms and conditions will be consistent with those that applied in recent years. The closing date for receipt of applications to the scheme will be 17 May.
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