Omens are bad, says NI union

THE ULSTER Farmers Union has said it anticipates problems over the next few weeks with single farm payment applications.

A spokesman said the omens were bad. “A small number of applications have been submitted to DARD already and we understand a high percentage of them have had to be returned because of errors.”

 The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development issued a statement on Wed (Apr 13) warning producers that the 2005 form was different in many ways and would take more time to complete.

 “So, if you have not already done so, begin completing the form now and identify anything you need help with,” it said. “Contact the DARD helpline (028 7131 9900) about anything you do not understand and then make sure you complete the whole form, including all the relevant columns in the field data sheet.”

The statement said farmers should particularly note that if they left section three of the field data sheet blank, it would not be possible to calculate entitlements so producers could lose their right to any payment.