The Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) Scheme Deadline is Here..
What is the BISS Scheme?
The Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) was formally known as the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) in Ireland. The BISS is designed to provide a direct income support to Irish farmers to underpin their continued sustainability and viability. Under the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) has transitioned into BISS, reflecting evolving priorities and aligning with sustainability objectives. Additionally, this shift emphasises the imperative of sustainable practices in modern agriculture and underscores the commitment to environmental stewardship. As Farmers, it is important you keep up to date with scheme deadlines and always seek professional advice from a verified advisor- But here is everything you need to know this week.
Am I Eligible?
To be eligible for the scheme you need to adhere to the following criteria.
1. One eligible hectare for each Payment
2. A registered herd number or applied for one by May 15, 2024.
3. Be an Active Farmer, meaning you’re the one farming and managing the land declared in your 2024 BISS application.
When is the deadline?
As of May 6, a staggering 83,096 applications had been submitted, highlighting the critical role these schemes play in supporting farmers across the nation. This surge represents a commendable effort by farmers and underscores the importance of such initiatives in ensuring the resilience of our agricultural sector. Last year, over 124,000 BISS applications flooded the department, showcasing the widespread reliance on these schemes. However, with approximately 40,000 farmers yet to submit their applications for 2024. Nevertheless, there remains a crucial window for engagement before the May 15 deadline.
Payment Rates
You’ll receive payment for each hectare of eligible land you farm and hold entitlements for, known as an eligible hectare. The payment per hectare is determined by the value of your entitlements. Factors influencing the number and value of entitlements include:
1. Previous payment rates and entitlements from direct payment schemes.
2. Yearly adjustments to align values with the national average (convergence).
3. Transfers of entitlements between farmers. Each entitlement you hold must be backed by an eligible hectare to qualify for payment.
Maximum and Minimum Payment
The maximum payment any farmer can receive under BISS in one scheme year is capped at €66,000. Payments won’t be less than €100. An advance payment may occur in October, while balancing payments start in December. Occasionally, If you don’t meet all scheme conditions, you might get a reduced or no payment.
Apply Online applications must be submitted by midnight on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, through agfood.ie. Contact the department’s Online Services Helpdesk if your login or password needs renewal.
Map your Farm with Herdwatch
Be prepared for the scheme application by mapping your farm for free on the Herdwatch app! Using high resolution satellite imagery to map your pastures, name them, measure the acreage & colour code by purpose. Furthermore, you can keep track of field records and tasks on the app and stay on top of your pasture management. If you need more information on the BISS Scheme- READ MORE HERE!
