Farmers in Ireland are to get an early payment of over €600m due to the wet weather experienced throughout June and July.
The Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney, confirmed that agreement has been reached in Brussels today which provides for an advance payment under the 2012 Single Payment Scheme.
The wet weather has adversely affected farmers, particularly in silage-making.
Extra costs due to the housing of animals and buying-in of feed, with the ongoing cash-flow difficulties have affected farming and the wider community.
The Minister said the advance payments will begin issuing as and from October 16, the first day of the new EU financial year.
The proposal to opt for the advance payment received unanimous support from all Member States.
In a statement issued today, Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers' Association president, Gabriel Gilmartin said "there will be sighs of relief from farmers across the country, as he welcomed the advance payment of 50% of the Single Farm Payment."
