Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

That seems to be a major change from AEOS. With AEOS one had to wait until after the first year was over and the final checks were done. It was only then one received 75% which was followed by a 25% payment. The Minister seems to be giving us good news, and great clarification for everybody, regarding the new GLAS scheme. Once one joins the scheme - say mid-year 2015 - that before one ever does anything on the farm the farmer will be paid 75% of a pre-payment. If that is fact then it is very welcome and I congratulate the Minister on negotiating such a scheme.