Farming News - ICSA welcomes fully funded €46.2m fertiliser scheme
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ICSA welcomes fully funded €46.2m fertiliser scheme
ICSA Rural Development chair Edmond Phelan has welcomed the allocation of €46.2 million to the Fertiliser Exceptional Aid Scheme in Budget 2027. "The full funding of this scheme was a positive from Budget 2027. The Government has committed the maximum national top-up allowed under the scheme, bringing the total funding to €46.2 million. Fertiliser is a major cost for farmers, and this funding will help cover some of that cost," he said.
On the payment rate, Mr Phelan said, "The €40 per tonne rate will provide useful support for farmers. However, the Minister has yet to confirm how many tonnes per farmer will qualify for payment, up to the maximum of 100 tonnes. Farmers must also have a valid BISS application for 2026 to qualify for the scheme."
Mr Phelan urged farmers to check their records on the National Fertiliser Database immediately. "Farmers must make sure that all fertiliser purchases for the 2025 fertiliser year, from 15 September 2024 to 14 September 2025, are correctly recorded in their name by 23 October. This is particularly important where a contractor has purchased or spread fertiliser on their behalf. If anything is missing or incorrect, farmers should contact their fertiliser merchant or the Department, as appropriate, before the deadline."