“This has resulted in the need for approximately 400 additional inspections to meet EU requirements, which ultimately has a bearing on Departmental resources. However I am able to announce that my Department is taking positive action to resolve these issues.” The Minister added, “At present almost half of the claimants have been paid and the remaining payments will be made over the next three to four months. If claimants have not yet received their 2010 NICMS payments, they may be among those selected for an inspection as a result of the high number of non-compliances. These inspections have already commenced. “Whilst the additional inspections have put growing pressure on Departmental resources available to progress new applications to NICMS, I can announce that 2,300 applications will still be progressed. 1,000 of these will start from 1 January 2012 with the remaining 1,300 being deferred to start from 1 January 2013. All applications received in 2010 will be prioritised using a set of criteria which are based on environmental benefit. “I am aware of our target to maintain 42% of agricultural land under agri-environment agreement and to help ensure that this is achieved I have asked my officials to urgently consider the extension of some agri-environment scheme agreements.” Minister O’Neill concluded by emphasising the importance of adherence to scheme guidelines. She said: “Within EU schemes including Single Farm Payment, we are duty bound to ensure that applications fully comply with the guidelines. This is particularly relevant when completing future Single Application Forms.” Agri-environment scheme participants are advised to check their management agreement and scheme explanatory booklet regularly and ensure that all work is completed within agreed timescales. Further information is available from Countryside Management Delivery staff at DARD Direct offices. A copy of the scheme booklet can be found at http://www.dardni.gov.uk/ruralni/dard_cms_info_cmb.pdf]]>
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