A total of 1,460 farmers have applied to the €10m Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM), the scheme introduced to support tillage farmers to chop straw into the soil after harvest.

The total area applied for is 28,508.35ha, according to the most recent figures available.

The total number of hectares of oilseed rape applied for is 5,576.94ha.

The 23,000ha of cereals is the equivalent of 575,000 round bales being chopped and incorporated into the soil as part of the new carbon measure.

The €10m budget for the scheme can cover up to 40,000ha at the full €250/ha rate.

Oilseed rape will be paid at the rate of €150/ha.

The minimum application level for farmers is 5ha, with a maximum of 40ha.