IFA President John Bryan has said the Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney
must immediately open the AEOS scheme for 10,000 farmers who are leaving
REPS 3.

Speaking at the IFA Executive Council in Dublin today (Wed), Mr Bryan said
that the reopening of AEOS must be done in sufficient time and well in
advance of the mid-May Single Farm payment deadline to ensure that farmers
are given ample opportunity to apply to this scheme.

“The renewed confidence in the sector must be supported by a new AEOS
similar to last year, for farmers who want to continue environmental works
on their farms,” he said.

Mr Bryan said “Farm schemes such as the AEOS and REPS play a significant
part in supporting farm incomes and improving the environment. They are also
crucial in stimulating the rural economy and creating jobs. The Government
must ensure that all farm schemes are fully funded and remain in place to
maintain our productive base, which will be an important element in
fulfilling the growth potential of Food Harvest 2020.”