Will BDGP funding revert to the EU if Irish farmers cannot claim it? – Ferris
In an atmosphere of growing anger among beef farmers about the Beef Data Genomics Programme (BDGP), Sinn Féin Agriculture Spokesperson Martin Ferris TD has asked Minister Coveney to clarify what will happen to the funding of the programme if it is not claimed by Irish farmers.
Deputy Ferris said:
“As far as I am aware, many farmers are withdrawing from this scheme because the terms and conditions are just too difficult to fulfil.
“The Minister needs to clarify what will happen to the funding if it is not drawn down by the end of this month, as was envisaged.
“Can Minister Coveney clarify whether or not under EU directive, the scheme funding for 2014 will be returned to the EU if it is not drawn down by the end of this month?
“The BDGP is a shambles and another ill-thought out scheme in which it is effectively impossible for many farmers to participate. Farmers are withdrawing and the application target will not be met by the end of this month.”
