The Department of Agriculture has confirmed to the IFA that it is writing to farmers who have appealed the penalty imposed on hill land that was burned in 2017, according to IFA hill committee chair Flor McCarthy.

McCarthy said it would be unacceptable that penalties be imposed without clear evidence.The IFA has supported farmers in their appeals, which have provided evidence that the farmers in question did not start the fires. This was done through affidavits and appeal letters.

At meetings with the Department of Agriculture since this issue arose at the end of 2017, the IFA has been told that the lands in question are eligible for 2018 basic payment and the only issue at stake is the 2017 payment.

McCarthy pointed out that the burnt land has been removed from the paper applications that these farmers received for this year’s BPS. However, he said the lands are eligible and will be included on the online system. He encouraged farmers to ensure all of their eligible land is included when they make their online applications.

If farmers still have a problem with their 2017 payment, the IFA is encouraging them to bring their case to the agricultural appeals office and says it will support them in arguing that unless the Department can prove culpability, payment must be made on the land.

Read more

Prosecution risk with burning land during closed season

Public protest over wildfires