Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael)
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291. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the criteria whereby a farmer can participate in his Department's basic payment scheme in 2015, for the first time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14568/15]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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New applicants who apply under the Basic Payment Scheme and new applicants under the other schemes which form part of the 2015 BPS application form should ensure that they have a valid Herd Number or, have applied for one to the Department’s local District Veterinary Office on or before 15 May, 2015. This is the final date under the current EU Regulations you may apply for a herd number if you wish to apply for the 2015 Basic Payment Scheme. New applicant s may obtain blank application forms by contacting the Basic Payment Section of my Department.

Persons who received a direct payment in 2013 in excess of €100 from the Single Payment Scheme or the Grassland Sheep Scheme or the Burren Conservation Scheme or the Beef Data Programme holds an automatic right to receive an allocation of new entitlements under the Basic Payment Scheme in 2015. However, there are a number of additional methods of acquiring entitlements for those who do not hold such an automatic Allocation Right.

Persons who never held entitlements under the Single Payment Scheme but who actively farmed in 2013 in either the beef, dairy, sheep or arable sectors are eligible to receive an allocation of entitlements under the provision known as the Scottish Derogation. Similarly persons who grew fruit and vegetables on a minimum area of one hectare in 2013 will be considered eligible. An online application will be available on the Departments website at the end of April.

The function of the National Reserve is to allocate entitlements to qualifying persons. Phase 1 of the National Reserve gave priority to those who qualify as ‘young farmers’ and ‘new entrants’ as defined under EU Regulations. The closing date for receipt of these applications was 31 March 2015. Phase II of the National Reserve provides for an allocation of entitlements for young farmers who established their holding during the period from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2009. On-line applications and full terms and conditions are available on the Department’s website.

Persons who require more detailed information on any aspect of the Basic Payment Scheme and related applications should contact CAP Information Centre at 0761 064438 or by email at .