Some €55.15m in payments under the Organic Farming Scheme are now making their way to farmers’ bank accounts.

Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon announced the commencement of the payments on Tuesday morning, with the €55.15m issuing to 4,858 farmers.

“The timely processing of payments is a key priority for my Department. Payments will be in farmers’ bank accounts in the coming days and my Department will continue to process as a matter of urgency all remaining cases for payment.

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“These payments are vital to provide the necessary support for conversion to, and maintenance of, organic farming,” said Minister Heydon.

Minister Heydon reiterated that applicants from the tillage sector will receive priority access to the Scheme in 2026, as the deadline for applications approaches.

“I would strongly encourage anyone who wishes to apply to do so before the closing date of Friday 12 December 2025,” he stated.

There are over 5,500 organic farmers participating in the Organic Farming Scheme.

Approximately 5.5% of agricultural land is currently under organic production.