(AGENPARL) - Roma, 1 Settembre 2026 - DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, ENVIRONMENT AND RURAL AFFAIRS
01 September 2026
Minister welcomes first year of Farm Sustainability Payments
The Farm Sustainability Payment is a key element of DAERA's Sustainable Agriculture Programme, helping to build a more resilient, productive and environmentally sustainable agricultural sector.
Welcoming the commencement of Farm Sustainability Payments, Minister Muir said: "Through the Sustainable Agriculture Programme, we are supporting farmers today while helping to build a more sustainable, resilient and competitive future for tomorrow.
"This year marks a change in direction, with the new Farm Sustainability Payment delivered to farmers alongside a range of conditionalities, including a requirement to take part in the Soil Nutrient Health Scheme and Bovine Genetics Project.
"Recognising the need to support farmers in taking climate action, it is my intention that participation in the Carbon Footprinting Project will also become a conditionality, subject to Assembly approval.
"New Farm Sustainability Standards are now also operational, replacing the previous cross-compliance requirements with a fairer, more robust system that protects our environment, improves biosecurity, and safeguards both animal and human welfare.
"Almost £240 million in Farm Sustainability Payments has been issued to Northern Ireland farmers, recognising the importance of agriculture as a key fabric of life within rural communities and the contribution farmers make to food production and environmental stewardship.
"The fact that 97% of eligible applicants received payment on the first day reflects our commitment to delivering support effectively."
Payments will continue to issue following successful validation checks for the remaining applications.
Farm businesses are reminded to ensure their contact and bank details are up to date to help avoid delays.
Payment notifications and scheme correspondence will be issued through the DAERA Messaging Service.
Farm businesses should check their DAERA online account and email regularly, including junk folders. To receive notifications and view payment details online, they should register for a DAERA online account through NIDA or Government Gateway via:
