Following heavy flooding, which hit parts of Northern Ireland last week, the environment department (DAERA) has urged affected farmers to apply for consideration for ‘force majeure’, warning that eligibility for farm funding could be affected.

Farmers affected have just over two weeks from the time of the flood (last Tuesday, 22nd August for most) to contact DAERA for consideration. The department warned that the eligibility of land for schemes such as the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) may have been affected in some cases.

Discussing the impact of the floods on Thursday, DAERA Permanent Secretary Noel Lavery said,
“We have had reports of livestock losses and damage to farmland and properties, with the Glenelly Valley and the North West particularly affected. Since the early hours of Wednesday morning our animal welfare, environmental officers and CAFRE advisors have been working with farmers, industry representatives and other government agencies to help alleviate the impact.”

“Our colleagues in the Northern Ireland Environment Agency have also been working on site to determine the type, source and scale of any pollution within the flooded areas. They are also providing advice to the multi-agency flood response team and where possible taking action to mitigate any pollution. However, given that areas remain underwater and roads closed, it is difficult to access some sites and therefore too early to determine the full impact of the flooding event.”

In the immediate aftermath of the floods, farmers were urged to check their insurance policies and contact insurance companies as early as possible; those whose homes had been damaged were told they could apply to Derry City & Strabane District Council for emergency financial assistance.

To submit a force majeure application, farmers can cal 0300 200 7848 or visit the DAERA website.