Deadline For Single Applications Next Week
Next Thursday (May 15) will mark the closing date for Single Applications.
The Department of Agriculture has said it expects 30,000 applications this year. On Tuesday, DARD confirmed it had received 8,460, with 5,648
submitted online.
This year, farmers must complete a 2015 Single Application to apply for Basic Payment, Young Farmers Payment, Greening Payment, Areas of Natural Constraint, NI Countryside Management Scheme , Organic Farming Scheme, Farm Woodland Scheme and Farm Woodland Premium Scheme.
However with just one week to go, Minister Michelle O’Neill has urged farmers to submit their applications online as soon as possible. “With the deadline of May 15 fast approaching I am appealing to farmers to help us to help you by applying now using the online service rather than the paper application.
I would also remind farmers to ensure that all necessary supporting evidence in support of applications is received on or before May 15 as late applications will be penalised.”
Highlighting the drawbacks of the paper application process, the Minister added, “Although my department received a record number of Single Applications online last year, the majority were still completed on paper.
“Paper applications are more prone to mistakes, which can lead to delays and, in some cases, lead to penalties. With so many changes for 2015, it is important that even more farmers apply online this year to help us process more claims quickly for payment. The online system is quick, easy, and secure, with no queues,” added the Minister.
Farmers with enquiries on DARD’s Single Application online service should contact 0300 200 7848.
Source: ulsterherald.com
