THE EUROPEAN Commission has agreed to allow farmers to receive half of their single farm payment in October, instead of December, because of the bad weather conditions.

This means Irish farmers will receive about €650 million some six weeks earlier than usual.

The decision was welcomed by Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney and farm organisations.

Mr Coveney said he had originally sought the 50 per cent advance, but last week he asked the EU commissioner for agriculture for a 70 per cent advance, given the worsening weather conditions – however, he says the Commissioner was unable to grant a 70% advance, due to budget constraints.

The derogation will allow the advance to be paid from October 16th onwards, rather than December 1st.

The IFA, ICMSA and ICSA have all welcomed the development, given the pressure on farmers as a result of the poor summer.