Wallace highlights On-line application facility for 2009 Single Farm Payment Scheme now live

1st April 2009

Minister of State Mary Wallace TD welcomes the news that the Dept of Agriculture’s on-line application facility for the 2009 Single Farm Payment applications is now ‘live’.

The on-line application facility is available for the 2009 Single Payment Scheme, the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme, and all other area based schemes, including the new Upland Sheep Payment.

In-built validations and compulsory fields are featured on the on-line facility which will dramatically restrict the possibility of applications being submitted with minor errors. Previously, applications submitted with minor errors using the traditional paper option would have resulted in the application being returned to the applicant. Farmers who submit their applications on-line are much more likely to have their applications cleared for payment more quickly, because of this aspect of the on-line system.

Almost 25,000 farmers are registered with the Dept of Agriculture, fisheries and Food to use the on-line facility, a further similar number have also availed of the option to have an approved designated agent lodge their application via the on-line system on their behalf.

Minister Wallace stated, “the use of agents is particularly attractive to those who wish to avail of the benefits of lodging an on-line application but who may not in a position to do so personally. This will further maximise the benefit of the on-line facility."

Minister Wallace concluded by urging anyone considering availing of the on-line facility to make enquiries via the website, www.agfood.ie or alternatively, the dedicated Helpdesk at Lo-call 1890 252 118.