14th May 2012

The Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association is urging all farmers to submit their completed Single Farm Payment forms on time, and to make sure that all details are as accurate as possible.  The deadline is tomorrow, Tuesday 15th of May (5.30pm for paper forms – online applicants have until midnight tomorrow).

ICSA president Gabriel Gilmartin says:  “It is vital to submit this form on time as any delay will cost you money in the form of deductions.  The Single Farm Payment is the most important application that farmers will have to make this year.  In many cases, the payment is absolutely crucial to the overall viability of a farm.”

The penalties for late applications are significant – with applications arriving on Wednesday, 16th of May being hit with a 1% deduction immediately.  This increases by 1% per working day, until the cut-off date of June 10th – when the penalty rises to 100%.

“Last year 1,700 farmers lost out on €1.6million in payments due to late application.  These are substantial losses that could easily have been avoided,” according to Mr. Gilmartin.

“The important thing is to get the form in on time.  Amendments can easily be made after Tuesday’s deadline,” he added.  Single Farm Payment Amendment forms can be submitted up until the 31st of May, 2012.