IFA National Rural Development Chairman Michael Biggins has called on the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed to begin discussions on an extension to GLAS contracts for 36,000 farmers whose plans finish at the end of this year.

IFA Rural Development Chairman Michael Biggins said the EU Commission has indicated that Member States can reopen their agri–environmental schemes in line with transitional rules.

IFA National Rural Development Chairman Michael Biggins has said that over 200 farmers in 70 townlands will qualify fully for the 2020 ANC scheme following the results of the appeal of the ANC review which took place two years ago. Farmers are being informed this week on the outcome of their appeals.

IFA National Rural Development Chairman Michael Biggins has expressed concern that the extension by the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed of the closing date of Tranche 17 from April 24th to June 6th will curtail investment on farms later this year.