Mayo farmers to receive ACRES balancing payments this week
Minister Alan Dillon says early payments will support farmers adopting environmental measures.
Farmers across Mayo are set to receive important balancing payments under the Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme this week, according to Minister of State Alan Dillon.
The payments, which have begun issuing earlier than last year, are aimed at supporting farmers who are implementing environmentally friendly practices on their land.
Minister Dillon welcomed the development, saying the funding is crucial for the agricultural sector.
“I’m delighted to see these payments have started to issue, and that they are being made a month earlier this year,” he said. “The ACRES payment is so important for farmers right across the country.”
The scheme rewards farmers for taking steps to address environmental challenges, including biodiversity protection, water quality improvements and climate action measures.
Nationally, approximately €37 million has been paid this week to 47,000 farmers participating in the scheme.
Since its launch in January 2023, total payments under ACRES have reached €783.5 million, reflecting the scale of investment in sustainable farming practices.
Minister Dillon said the majority of participants are expected to benefit in the coming days.
“It is envisaged that over 88% of farmers in ACRES will have received their 2025 balancing payment by the end of this week, which will come as a welcome relief for farmers in Mayo,” he said.
He added that continued support for agriculture remains a priority.
“It is essential we acknowledge the work farmers are doing to address environmental concerns in the agriculture sector,” he said. “Farmers in Mayo can be reassured that support remains strong.”
The payments are expected to provide a financial boost to farm households across the county as they continue to adapt to evolving environmental requirements.