EU Legislation, Initiatives, etc.

Defra: The new minimum claim size for the Single Payment Scheme (SPS) and other direct farm payments has been set. The decision follows the completion of a consultation exercise covering the CAP Health Check reforms relating to these payments.  After full consideration of the consultation responses and discussion with industry, it has been decided that the new minimum claim size will be set at one hectare.
 
This will apply to a farmer’s total claim for SPS, Area Payment for Nuts and Protein Crop Premium from the 2010 scheme year.
Press release ~ New minimum claim size FAQs ~ CAP Health Check ~ Defra - CAP Health Check ~ Defra - SPS
 
Defra: Further details on the derogation for the amount of manure nitrogen that can be applied to farmland have been announced by Defra. Farmers of grazing livestock will be able to apply (before the end of January 2010) for a retrospective derogation for 2009 allowing them to apply up to 250kg of livestock manure nitrogen per hectare, where certain conditions are met to help protect waters.  Derogation applications for 2010 will should be made from 1 February to 30 April 2010.
 
The 170kg nitrogen limit continues to apply to livestock manure from other animals (such as pigs & poultry) that are not classed as grazing livestock. New regulations, guidance & application periods will be published later in 2009 for farmers wishing to apply for the derogation.
Press release ~ Nitrates: Reducing water pollution from agriculture
 
WAG: Wales is marking a major milestone as it reaches its target of investing 50% of European funding available to the region - almost £1bn - as part of a 7 year drive to boost the Welsh economy and create jobs.  The target was set for the 2007-2013 Structural Funds programmes in response to the economic downturn and, with match funding, will generate an investment of £1.8bn through 119 projects, helping nearly 29,000 Welsh businesses and providing employment & training opportunities for 280,000 individuals.
Press release ~ 2007-2013 Structural Funds programmes ~ WAG: Leading Wales out of recession
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