Changes will affect dairy more than beef producers
NFU Scotland has raised concerns to the Scottish Government this week about changes made to the ineligible breeds list for those applying to the Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme, which closes on 31 December.
The changes, made without consultation or notification to farmers, mean that many will be unaware of this updated list and will have included animals that were eligible at the time of application – prior to 23 November – in good faith. The scheme opened for applications on 1 September.
In discussions this week, Scottish Government acknowledged that in a small number of cases there is a genuine grey area surrounding certain dual purpose breeds.
Farmers in any doubt, or who have breeds on the updated ineligible breeds list should contact their local Scottish Government office.
Keepers using dual purpose breeds for genuine suckled production may be eligible and should also therefore contact their local office.
Charlie Adam, NFU Scotland’s Livestock Committee Chairman commented: “There would appear to have been no notification beyond the Scottish Government’s website, either in the press or to individual applicants, to inform them of the update which came into effect after the scheme opened for applications on 1 September. This is clearly unfair and unreasonable.
“With the application window for this year’s Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme closing on 31 December we find it unacceptable that major changes to the ineligible breeds list is made so late – 23 November – without any consultation or proper notification.
“The updated list will affect dual purpose breeds from dairy herds produced from a beef bull more than beef producers.” Ends
Notes to Editors
- The Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme opened for applications on 1 September 2015, with a closing date of 31 December. Any members who have concerns about their application should contact their local Scottish Government Rural Payments and Inspections Division.
- Click here to view updated ineligible breeds list as per 23 November.
Contact Ruth McClean on 0131 472 4108 or ruth.mcclean@nfus.org.uk