Some 1,835 applications were received for the latest tranche of the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS) which closed last Friday.

Of the 1,835, almost 500 of these applications were from tillage farmers who can now apply for grants for the first time.

The Animal Welfare, Safety and Nutrient Storage Scheme had the second biggest uptake, with just over 470, while 380 applied for the Young Farmers Capital Investment Scheme.

Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed said: “I am very pleased with the level of interest shown in the seventh tranche of the TAMS scheme, particularly in the new Tillage Capital Investment Scheme under which almost 500 applications were approved.

“We have paid out €15m this year and are continuing to make payments every week,” Creed said.

The eighth tranche is now open to cover the period from 1 July to 6 October 2017.

Under the scheme, individual farmers can apply for grants of 40% on investments up to €80,000 excluding VAT, while eligible young trained farmers can get a grant of up to 60%.

The numbers

Young Farmers Capital Investment Scheme 380

Dairy Equipment Scheme 333

Organic Capital Investment Scheme 48

Animal Welfare, Safety and Nutrient Storage Scheme 473

Low-Emission Slurry Spreading 98

Pig and Poultry Investment Scheme 13

Tillage Capital Investment Scheme 490

Read more

TAMS II fertiliser spreader details available

Sharp rise in low-emission slurry spreading