NFU Scotland has welcomed clarity that farmers erecting new slurry storage facilities as part of successful Rural Priorities scheme applications will be eligible for the new, higher grant rate of 50 percent.

Scottish Government is in the process of making the necessary statutory changes that will alter the grant rate from 40 percent to the higher 50 percent rate, as announced by the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Richard Lochhead, last summer.

NFU Scotland’s head of Rural Policy, Jonnie Hall said:

“Those who have agreed contracts to erect new slurry handling facilities but have yet to submit their claim have been concerned that they would only be supported at the lower rate, as stipulated in their agreement.

“However, Scottish Government has made it clear to NFU Scotland that, subject to the Statutory Instrument being approved, its intention is that the date at which the higher grant rate is applicable will be backdated to 1^st January, 2010. Any successful applications for slurry storage made in 2009, but with the claim for works submitted in 2010 will receive the higher rate of support.

“Similarly, the Scottish Government intends to contact those farms involved in any recently issued contracts referring to the old rate, and advise them that they are also eligible for the new rates.  Anyone with a contract due for signature will now have in it a sentence stating that they will be paid at the rate in force at the time of the claim.  According to the Scottish Government, they can sign without fear of only being paid at the 40 percent rate.

“The help of the Scottish Government in clearing up this issue has been most welcome.  Many farms, particularly those in nitrate vulnerable zones, are faced with the considerable expense of upgrading their slurry facilities and the increased support offered through this scheme is invaluable in meeting the huge costs involved.”

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Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006