The level of paperwork or online recording required in farming has never been as high. You only have to look at the number and range of schemes listed in the tables to get an indication of this. Granted, many of these schemes are voluntary but the harsh reality is that the returns from farming are heavily reliant on direct payments and, therefore, farmers cannot afford not to participate.

While the higher-performing sectors can opt to participate in some of the voluntary schemes, there are other schemes that are vital to adhere to cross compliance and are fundamental to the everyday running of the respective farm businesses. The nitrates derogation is a prime example of this and is an essential scheme for over 7,000 farmers operating above the standard organic nitrogen limits.

Bord Bia’s quality assurance schemes are voluntary but are essential for farmers trading livestock and milk. The lists are by no way exclusive and detail common schemes to highlight what schemes are available and to emphasise how vulnerable farmers are without clarity about the future of schemes such as the BPS, GLAS, TAMS II, Sheep Welfare Scheme and BDGP.

Other schemes which offer tax exemptions are also vital for the transfer of assets from one generation to the next and all eyes will be on the upcoming budget to ensure these allowances are maintained.