With 70% of farmers using the online application method, older farmers or those with poor internet connection are at risk of being left behind.

This is the view of Roscommon-Galway TD Michael Fitzmaurice. Deputy Fitzmaurice said fears are rising for those marginal farmers as their Basic Payment Scheme could be under threat as a result of the online applications.

New European Commission regulations will see all BPS applications being made online by 2018. However, many areas in rural Ireland are still without broadband.

Speaking to the Irish Farmers Journal, Fitzmaurice said: “The move online should be done on a phased basis. They should set a target of five to 10 years to accomplish all applications being done online and that target will be met without any complications, but all farmers must be considered in this decision.

“If the broadband problem can be fixed within two years that’s great and it will help farmers.

“However, in that 30% there are farmers who may not have had primary education. The Minister and Department need to show compassion towards these people.”

Fitzmaurice feels the older generation is being “crucified” with this new method as they may not have the facilities or resources to apply for payments. Farmers should have the option of using either paper work or online application methods, he added.

“We need to try and accommodate everyone as best as possible.”