Ring confirms over €64 million in vital supports paid out to 9,459 farmers in Mayo

Michael Ring, TD, has today confirmed that €64,838,300 in vital farm supports have been paid out to 9,459 farmers in Mayo, as payments continue to issue.

So far, the first tranche of payments has issued for the Area of Natural Constraint (ANC) scheme, the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS), and the new Eco-schemes, with almost €815 million having been paid out to farmers around the country.

“Agriculture is at the heart of rural communities here in Mayo and right across Ireland - it is critical to supporting employment and preserving our unique landscape. Fine Gael is committed to delivering for farmers and rural Ireland and farm payments form an important part of supporting the sector,” Deputy Ring said.

“I am acutely aware that a number of farmers are yet to receive their first tranche of payments. Farmers are under pressure as this year has seen high input costs compounded by challenging weather conditions and I want to see these outstanding payments issued as quickly as possible.”

Farmers wishing to contact the department regarding their payment can contact the Direct Payments Helpdesk at 057 8674422. Queries can also be submitted online via www.agfood.ie.

Fine Gael’s Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture Martin Heydon said: “2023 was the first year of the new-CAP. Farm payments were made later this year than in previous years as new schemes were introduced. A commitment has been given to farmers and their representatives that these payments will return to their usual timings next year as we know how important they are.”