The Northern Ireland Agriculture Department has announced that it will liaise with DEFRA to seek permission from the EU to allow it to raise the level of advanced CAP payment made in October from 50% to 70%.
Many farmers are currently assessing the damage to their businesses due to the recent flash floods which hit Northern Ireland on 22 August.
A number have lost livestock or suffered damage to farmland or properties. For example, tens of thousands of chickens have been killed in the floods.
The Northern Irish Agriculture Department (DAERA) said that an increase in the level of advanced CAP payment will help alleviate some of the costs, and will help encourage the EU to make these payments.
DAERA said it is aware of the impact on affected businesses and their land and said that the department remains committed to making advance payments from 16 October to farmers who have verified claims.
Impacted farmers have thus been encouraged to submit their force majeure applications as soon as possible ahead of the deadline (14 September 2017).
In light of the impacts of the extreme conditions, DAERA said that it is adopting a flexible approach to late notification of animal losses from affected premises.
Farmers have been are urged to take extra precautions if working in flooded areas or damaged property to keep themselves, their family and anyone else working on the farm safe.
Flooding and extreme weather events are no stranger to the farming industry. The NFU has previously said that creating solutions which improve flood resilience and build a secure, sustainable supply of water is 'vital' for the future of the food and farming industry.
Government flood advice
DAERA has issued advice for farmers who have been battling the recent disaster.
• Do not enter flooded areas unless it is absolutely necessary to do so.
• Work in pairs or let someone know where they are going and carry a charged mobile phone.
• Wear appropriate protective clothing including a high visibility jacket.
• Take extra care when using machinery and drive slowly and carefully on flooded roads.
• Remember flood water can lift manhole covers so extra care should be taken and particular care is needed in deep water or where is it flowing rapidly.
• Contact their local vet if they are concerned about welfare or disease risk to stock.
