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The Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs Minister, Andrew Muir, has announced the opening of the £267 million Single Application and Map Service along with the Entitlements Transfer Service. These services are crucial for farm businesses, as they offer funding for Direct Payments, which serve as the primary source of income for many local farmers.
Minister Muir stated, "I am pleased to declare the commencement of the 2024 Single Application and Maps Service and the Entitlements Transfer Service. This substantial funding package, totaling £267 million, plays a vital role in supporting the resilience of farm businesses. It underscores our dedication to farming families and the rural economy throughout Northern Ireland."
Highlighting the importance of timely action, the Minister urged all farmers to apply early to avoid potential penalties.
The 2024 Single Application and Maps Service, and Entitlements Transfer Service applications can be submitted via DAERA’s Online Services starting from 1 March. To prevent late claim penalties, Single Applications must be submitted by 15 May, with the final submission deadline set for June 10. Entitlement Transfer applications must be submitted by 2 May.
The Single Application facilitates claims for various schemes including:
- Basic Payment Scheme (BPS)
- Young Farmers’ Payment (YFP)
- Environmental Farming Scheme (EFS)
- Farm Woodland Premium Scheme (FWPS)
- Forest Expansion Scheme (Annual Premia)
- Small Woodland Grant Scheme (SWGS)
- Protein Crop Scheme
Farmers are encouraged to use the Single Application and Map Service to report any land changes in 2024 promptly to ensure timely payment processing.
For assistance with applications, farmers can reach out to DAERA’s Advisory Service helpline at 0300 200 7848 or email areabasedschemes@daera-ni.gov.uk. Additionally, a web-chat facility within the application provides instant advice during the application process.
Throughout the application period, farmers will receive DAERA Messaging to confirm the completion of their Single Application and Entitlement transfer submission, ensuring a secure, convenient, and environmentally friendly process.
Farmers are advised to regularly check their emails for communications from DAERA Area-based Schemes and ensure their registered email address is up to date. Registration for a DAERA online account is available at: DAERA Online Services.
