NORTHERN IRELAND'S record of making its farm payments sharp in October each year is not to be sacrificed to the restrictions of Covid-19.

DAERA Minister Edwin Poots has stated that the province's deadline for Single Application Forms remains May 15, 2020, as he is not minded to give farmers an extension that may result in a later payment.

However, he has extended the period during which farmers can amend their claims without penalty to June 9, 2020.

Minister Poots said: “In these difficult times the importance of a secure, domestic food supply has never been clearer. The financial security of farm businesses is a critical link in that supply. I therefore urge farmers and their agents to submit their Single Applications now to ensure farm payments can be made in October 2020.

“I am aware that the European Commission has offered EU Member States the option to delay the Single Application deadline until June 15," he noted. "Northern Ireland is the only region of the United Kingdom to make direct payments in October each year – delaying the Single Application submission deadline beyond May 15 would inevitably delay these payments.

“Farmers rely heavily on their direct payments, which also help to sustain the wider rural economy. I do not believe, therefore, that it would ultimately benefit farmers in Northern Ireland if I were to introduce similar measures at this time. I am, however, extending the period when farmers can amend their claims without penalty to June 9.”

Acknowledging the fact that some farmers may well be self-isolating or social distancing, the Minister said that assistance was available in such circumstances: "An enhanced telephone advisory service is now operational given that DAERA Direct offices are closed for face-to-face appointments. I acknowledge the closure of DAERA Direct offices may inconvenience some farmers, but please be assured that such decisions are taken to protect the spread of coronavirus and save lives. We are in this together.”