The Irish Farmers Journal understands that the Department of Agriculture will seek a derogation to the crop diversification requirements from the European Commission due to the wet autumn weather conditions.

Under greening requirements, farmers with an arable area between 10ha and 30ha are required to plant at least two crops. Farmers with more than 30ha are required to plant at least three crops.

Saturation point

Met Éireann has stated that soil across Ireland has reached saturation point and with up to 50mm of rain expected in some parts of the country this week, the flexibility would allow breathing space for tillage farmers.

“The minister is aware of these difficulties, and the possible implications on farmers’ compliance under greening. Both the minister and the Department have been in contact with the European Commission and an official communication has been sent by the Department,” a spokesperson for the Department said.