The application process for the 2026 Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS), Complementary Redistributive Income Support for Sustainability (CRISS), Eco Schemes and other related schemes has now opened.

Over the coming weeks, farmers will be receiving a BISS information pack in the post containing their maps and land details for 2026.

This information will assist farmers and their advisers to make their online application ahead of the closing date for applications on Friday 15 May 2026.

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Announcing the opening of applications, Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon urged farmers using advisers to engage early rather than waiting until nearer the closing date.

Farmers can apply for all of their direct payments online.

ANC

Farmers are reminded to check that they have correctly applied for the Areas of Natural Constraints (ANC), Eco Scheme and continued participation in Complementary Income Support for Young Farmers, if applicable.

Annual payment claims for the Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM), Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) and the Organic Farming Scheme (OFS) can also be made online.

The terms and conditions should be read carefully, in particular if you are a tillage farmer, in light of changes around GAEC 7 (crop rotation and diversification in arable lands).

The Minister said: “Direct payments are a critical element of farm income and I would encourage all farmers to make sure that they submit their application on time and where any queries arise, to respond promptly to allow payments issue on time.”

As part of the terms and conditions for 2026, a new section regarding farm safety, health and wellbeing has been included.

This text is there to remind farmers of their obligations, but also the support available through schemes such as the TAMS III Farm Safety Capital Investment Scheme to assist them to make their work environment safer.

Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture with responsibility for forestry, farm safety and horticulture Michael Healy-Rae TD said: “Tragically, 24 farmers lost their lives in incidents on Irish farms in 2025, double the number of fatal incidents in 2024.

"I want farmers to know that while they have obligations under health and safety legislation, Department supports are available. If you are struggling and finding it difficult to cope, reach out and talk to someone you trust, an adviser, a GP or a helpline.”