34,000 applications received for farm schemes replacing BEEP
A Mayo TD has raised concerns with the Minister for Agriculture regarding the delays on the implementation of a replacement scheme for the Beef Environmental Efficiency Programme (BEEP). In response, the minister outlined significant progress and initiatives that will bring substantial benefits to the beef sector, rural economy and farmers' income.
Fine Gael Deputy Alan Dillon questioned Minister Charlie McConalogue about the progress and timeline for announcing and implementing the replacement scheme for BEEP. He also emphasised the importance of addressing farmers' concerns to support the sustainability of the suckler sector.
Deputy Dillon sought clarification on when the new scheme's terms and conditions will be finalised, and outlined that applications are expected to open in late July or early August 2023, and payments set to commence in December 2023 for the replacement BEEP.
Recognising the crucial role of beef production in the agri-food sector and regional economy, Minister McConalogue announced the introduction of two essential schemes this year to strengthen the beef sector.
The Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP), operating from 2023 to 2027, aims to enhance the environmental sustainability and genetic merit of the suckler herd. Building on the success of the Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP), the SCEP incorporates the weighing measure from the Beef Environmental Efficiency Programme - Suckler (BEEP-S).
Furthermore, the National Dairy Beef Welfare Scheme (NDBWS), launched in March, facilitates integration between the dairy and beef sectors by providing support to farmers rearing progeny from the dairy herd for beef production.
The overwhelming response to these schemes is evident, with approximately 20,000 applications received for the SCEP and over 14,000 farmers enrolling in the NDBWS. This enthusiastic participation reflects farmers' recognition of the benefits these schemes offer in ensuring the sustainability of the sector.
Highlighting ongoing efforts, the minister said that officials are currently refining the operational aspects of the National Beef Welfare Scheme (NBWS), funded through the Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR). The NBWS aims to improve economic efficiency, animal health and husbandry on suckler farms.
Said Deputy Dillon: “It is really important to see the progress made by the minister in addressing the concerns of our farmers and developing schemes that support Irish beef production. These initiatives play a crucial role in sustaining the livelihoods of our farmers and ensuring the continued growth of the beef sector.”