The Department of Agriculture has opened the payment application procedure for phase one of the Voluntary Supply Management Scheme. Phase one covers the period from October to December 2016, with 4,447 applications initially submitted by Irish dairy farmers.

Payment application forms are available through co-ops, with farmers required to return completed forms to their co-op by Friday, 3^rd February.

Should co-ops have any questions concerning the payment process or require the VSMS number or the authorised reduction amount for each supplier, they are advised to contact Kevin Galligan at vsmsdairy@agriculture.gov.ie or 01 607 2159

By Eamonn Farrell
Agri Food Policy Executive