Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Department has carried out a few analyses of this. The category of farmer we are discussing comprises those who commenced prior to 2008, were under 40 years of age in 2015 and held low-value entitlements under the BPS. A 2019 assessment showed that 3,900 farmers fulfilled the criteria, with the cost of increasing the value of entitlements estimated to be €12 million. Obviously, we are conducting a separate assessment now because we have seen convergence, which has averaged out payments significantly, happen in the meantime.

I do not have it to hand, but when I made my commitment on this scheme, I publicly announced the general categories that would be included. The challenge now is to move the commitment on and make the payments. This issue dates back 16 years to 2008, but it is one that I want to get resolved and bring to a conclusion. I have the team prioritising it this year so that the scheme can be progressed and delivered.

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