ALL farmers applying for inclusion in Tranche 2 of the ACRES environmental scheme ‘need to get in’, according to Connacht IFA chair, Pat Murphy.

He said that following the confirmation last week from Agriculture Minister, Charlie McConalogue, that Tranche had opened for applications since November 22 last, it was vital that no farmer be left out of the schemes.

“This is a very important income source and especially so for smaller farming enterprises across the western region – we just don’t want to see anyone left out,” said Pat Murphy.

So far, 46,000 farmers have been admitted to ACRES (Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme) but according to the Dept. of Agriculture, there is an overall ‘capacity limit’ of 50,000 for inclusion.

If the scheme is over-subscribed, the Department have stated that ‘a ranking and selection process will be undertaken’.

The deadline for the receipt of applications under Tranche 2 of the scheme – both ‘general’ and ‘co-operation’ – is 5.30pm on Wednesday, December 13.

“The Government has committed €1.5 billion to ACRES over the duration of the scheme to facilitate the participation of 50,000 farmers.

“The funding I secured in last month’s Budget facilitates the opening of Tranche 2 of ACRES to bring the numbers in the Scheme up to that level, which is also in line with Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027,” said Minister McConalogue.

Pictured: Charlie McConalogue: €1.5 billion committed to ACRES scheme.