Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the commencement of payments under the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP), confirming that Galway farmers will receive €5,293,879.75 across 1,763 participants.

Nationally, €47.06 million is now issuing to 14,983 farmers – over 94% of all scheme participants.

SCEP is a key measure under Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan 2023–2027, supporting the environmental and economic sustainability of the national suckler herd.

Minister Canney said the scale of support highlights the importance of the suckler sector to both Galway and the wider rural economy: “This is a major and timely boost for suckler farmers in Galway, who are among the top beneficiaries in the country. These payments provide vital income support and recognise the commitment of farmers to improving herd sustainability and efficiency. I welcome the Department’s swift progress in getting the vast majority of payments out the door, with the remainder to follow as cases meet the final scheme requirements.”

He said SCEP continues to deliver long-term benefits by supporting better breeding practices, reducing emissions and strengthening the resilience of the beef sector under the CAP: “SCEP is delivering real environmental and economic value. Galway farmers have shown strong participation again this year, and the programme is helping to future-proof family farms through improved genetics and more efficient production.”

Minister Canney also noted the wider level of State support for the beef sector: “€79 million has issued over the past 10 days across three beef schemes, demonstrating this Government’s firm commitment to farm families and to safeguarding the viability of rural communities.”