NFU Scotland has called for a simpler, re-prioritised and more accessible scheme in its response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on the new Scotland Rural Development Programme (SRDP).
There is an acknowledgment that the SRDP funds, known as Pillar 2, are limited but NFUS insists they must be used to complement the direct support available to farmers and crofters through the CAP’s Pillar 1 direct support regime
It has also called on the Scottish Government to match, or increase, the level of funding committed to the SRDP in 2007 to 2013.
Specifically, the union calls on the Scottish Government to match fund the 9.5% of funds that it will transfer from Scotland’s direct support pot for farmers to the SRDP.
The union has also proposed a three-tier structure for the schemes available, including an easier access level, improved delivery and ceilings set on funding levels.
It also believes the Less Favoured Areas Support Scheme (LFASS) should continue in its current form and with its existing budget.
NFUS believes there is a need for a package of what it calls “resilience measures” for all sectors and farm types.
These would include small-scale drainage, flood management options, precision technology and recording aimed at driving business and carbon efficiency.
There should also be a cattle development programme to improve efficiency and genetic development while at the same time reducing carbon footprint.
Support for innovation, collaboration and new entrants should also be part of the package as should a bigger agri-environment budget.
This might seem a lot to ask for but to pay for it NFUS proposes that the SRDP budget is radically re-prioritised by reducing woodland creation targets by 50% to free up some £16 million per year to fund the farm efficiency measures.
NFUS president Nigel Miller said: “We firmly believe the priorities we have mapped out for the future SRDP create a foundation for the development of a smarter and more efficient agricultural industry which can operate in a tougher economic and environmental climate.
“The three-tier approach we have mapped out would, we believe, improve access to the scheme while the use of ceilings will help to make sure that, over the whole term of the programme, the reach of the SRDP extends into every corner of Scotland and hits holdings, of every type and size.
“The ongoing delivery of a fully funded Less Favoured Areas Support Scheme is a priority as this currently does so much for livestock production in our hills and uplands.
“The huge pressure that changes to our weather patterns have brought on farming businesses in recent years means that measures to support drainage and resilience are essential if we are to underpin our ability to produce.”