Hundreds of County Galway farmers are set to benefit from new compensation measures on restricted land specially designated for the protected hen harriers.
Galway members of the Irish Farmers Designated Lands (IFDL) have been engaged in an intensive lobbying campaign for changes to Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for hen harriers, and this looks set to reward its members with a compensation package next year.
Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney has unveiled details of a hen harrier scheme for farmers who have farmland designated for the protection of the hen harrier.
The measure, which is still being developed, will come under the LLEAS (Locally-Led Agri Environment Scheme).
The new scheme, in addition to one announced in May, gives a commitment to pay €23 million per year for five years to farmers who farm in hen harrier regions.
Most farmers in hen harrier regions will receive €370 per hectare, provided they join the appropriate schemes.
The scheme is due to come into effect in the third quarter of 2016, and the payment will be made on the basis of actions taken and income forgone.
Liam Connaire, committee member of Galway IFDL, welcomed the package. “Both announcements are a welcome development and I am satisfied that the hard work and intensive lobbying of the group on this specific issue has paid huge dividends for all farmers in hen harrier regions,” he said.
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