Changes to cross-compliance penalty system

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Michelle Gildernew announced today that the cross-compliance penalty system has to be tightened up.

In making her announcement, the Minister said: “I recognise that this is not good news for farmers, but European Commission auditors have ruled that the current system of applying penalties is too lenient.

“We have looked at the fairest way of implementing these penalties for the small number of farmers who, each year, do not meet the cross-compliance requirements. I have had to balance the impact of the increase in penalty levels against the risk of EU disallowance. I have explained the position to the ARD Committee and noted their views, in particular regarding the date of implementation. However, as EU disallowance reduces the level of funds available to Government, it affects all farmers and rural dwellers. In these circumstances, I have no option but to comply with the Commission’s ruling and increase the penalties from this year.”

The Minister continued: “I would strongly encourage farmers to make sure that they comply with all the cross-compliance elements that are relevant to their business. In particular, the Nitrates and Cattle Identification, Registration and Movement requirements, as our experiences to date suggest that it is in these areas that most non-compliance is found. My Department provides help and support on cross-compliance through the Farm Advisory Service. In addition, I have asked for details of the revised penalty system to be made available on the Department’s internet site.

“I am also aware of the importance that farmers place on being personally present at animal related inspections and the pressure that this adds, especially for those who have other responsibilities outside their farms. I have asked my officials to consider how cattle inspections at a whole herd level are organised to see if the arrangements for these can be improved.”

The cross-compliance requirements cover a range of Statutory Management Requirements (relating to the environment, public, animal and plant health and animal welfare) and Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition (GAEC) measures.

Notes to editors:

1. EU rules require that at least 1% of farmers applying for direct subsidy are inspected for cross-compliance purposes each year. This percentage increases if Commission thresholds on percentages of non-compliance are exceeded.
2. Since the introduction of Single Farm Payment in 2005, the total of cross-compliance penalties amounts to around £250,000 each year.
3. Details of the cross-compliance penalty system are available from the DARD website.
4. All media enquiries should be directed to the DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.