FARMERS are the backbone of our economy and our rural communities, said Minister of State Niall Collins as he welcomed the commencement of advance payments under the 2026 Eco-Scheme.
The Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine confirmed that €8,713,508 in advance payments under the 2026 Eco-Scheme have commenced to 4,299 Limerick farmers.
Nationwide, payments worth €203,105,550 have commenced to 106,913 farmers.
The aim of Ireland’s Eco-Scheme is to reward farmers for undertaking actions beneficial to the climate, environment, water quality and biodiversity.
“Eco-Scheme payments are a vital support for farmers in Limerick. The Eco-Scheme advance payments are commencing today at a rate of 75% which is 5% higher than it was paid in recent years.
“Farmers are the backbone of our economy and our rural communities. They deliver world-class produce that supports international trade, and it is essential that they are supported in doing so,” said Mr Collins, who added that the Eco-Scheme is one of the key levers that ensures vital farm payments are not just protected but strengthened into the future.
“Payments will be visible in farmers’ bank accounts in the coming days and the Department will continue to process all remaining cases for payment as they meet scheme criteria.”
“Farmers wishing to contact the Department regarding their Eco-Scheme payments can phone the direct payments helpdesk at 057 8674422. Farmers can also submit any queries they may have online via www.MyAgfood.ie” concluded Mr Collins.
