Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Like the Deputy, I want to avoid farmers losing out because ANC payments are important for them. When farmers miss out on them, it is quite significant for them in that particular year. Every effort is made within the application process and structure to ensure it is clear whether the farmer is applying for this payment and to provide a reminder if the farmer is not applying for it. If a farmer does not apply as part of their BPS application, they have not applied for the ANC scheme. However, a 25-day period is provided afterwards in which to make late application. I will review the process in advance of May of this year. I will consider whether there is any way to look further at prompting farmers. We do not want this situation. We want those who apply for an ANC payment to qualify for it. We want them to apply. We want to use every safeguard we can to ensure they do that and we avoid these situations. I will look at it again. However, the intention is to ensure that the system is as smooth and as easy to use as possible for farmers and, ultimately, that they get paid as quickly as possible afterwards.

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