Eligible farmers in Northern Ireland can now apply to the 2016 Young Farmers’ Payment/Regional Reserve which have now opened.

Those applicants wishing to apply for the schemes this year must submit their supporting evidence before April 15, 2016, the North’s Department of Agriculture (DARD) has said.

Agriculture Minister, Michelle O’Neill, said that the Young Farmers’ Payment is aimed at providing support for young farmers in their first five years, encouraging a new generation of farmers, and safeguarding the development of a well skilled and professional farming industry.

“Access to the Regional Reserve is important to those commencing their agricultural activities, either as young farmers or as new entrants.

“It provides them the opportunity to obtain entitlements and to have the value of existing entitlements increased to help develop their farming enterprise and ensure the future of the industry.”

“I encourage all who intend to do so, to read the guidance available on the DARD website, collate the evidence you need and provide it on time to reduce the potential for delays at a later stage.”

Minister O’Neill has encouraged applicants to apply via DARD’s online system.

“My message for prospective applicants to the Young Farmers’ Payment and or Regional Reserve is to start early, do it online and finish on time.

“It is important that young farmers applying for the Young Farmers’ Payment for the first time or for applicants to the Regional Reserve, as either a young farmer or new entrant, are familiar with the requirements and provide their information and evidence within this time frame, as well as applying via their Single Application Form.”