More than 18,000 eligible farmers and crofters have started to receive their share of £300 million of farm subsidy payments.
Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing confirmed that the first tranche of the final balance of the Common Agricultural Policy (Cap) Pillar 1 entitlement for the 2017 scheme year would be in bank accounts from today.
The announcement was welcomed by NFU Scotland president Andrew McCornick who said it was a timely boost for farmers after a difficult autumn, winter and spring.
Mr McCornick also pointed out that not everyone who is due their balance will receive it in this first wave of payments.
“Those who miss out on this tranche still need to receive the payment sooner rather than later and we would like to see a commitment from the Scottish Government that these will be made well before the deadline of 30 June,” he said.
“This is not the end of the Scottish Government’s commitments though and it is important that we now see the same urgency for the release of the LFASS balance, suckler calf payments and ewe hogg payments.
“These payments are vital to farmers at the best of times and considering the recent struggles within the industry it is crucial that farmers and crofters get these financial boosts as soon as possible.”
Mr McCornick added that after such a difficult six months across the regions and sectors, these subsidies could amount to the most significant income some will get until the end of autumn, after harvest and the back end sales.
“It is great news that farmers will be receiving the last 10% but the Scottish Government needs to build on this moment and not rest on its laurels. This has been one of the hardest and longest winters we have seen in a long time and we need the Scottish Government to continue to work with us during this tough spell.”
nnicolson@thecourier.co.uk
