Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the opening of the 2026 Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) and related Direct Payment schemes, urging farmers to submit their applications well in advance of the closing date.

The 2026 application process for BISS, Complementary Redistributive Income Support for Sustainability (CRISS), Eco-Schemes and other related Direct Payment schemes is now open, with a closing date of Friday, 15 May 2026.

Over the coming weeks, farmers will receive their BISS information packs by post, including maps and land details for 2026 to assist them in completing their online applications. All applications must be submitted online via www.agfood.ie.

Minister Canney said: “Direct payments remain a critical support for farm families and for the sustainability of rural communities throughout the country. I would strongly encourage farmers to engage early with their advisor and submit their application well before the 15 May deadline.”

“As we continue to support sustainable food production, climate action and environmental protection, schemes such as BISS, CRISS and the Eco-Schemes provide essential income stability while rewarding farmers for the positive work they are doing on the ground.”

Farmers are reminded to ensure they have correctly applied for the Areas of Natural Constraints (ANC), Eco-Scheme and, where applicable, continued participation in the Complementary Income Support for Young Farmers. Annual claims for the Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM), the Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) and the Organic Farming Scheme can also be made online.

The 2026 Terms and Conditions include an expanded section on Farm Safety, Health and Wellbeing. Tragically, 24 farmers lost their lives in incidents on Irish farms in 2025 – double the number in 2024. Supports are available under schemes such as the TAMS 3 Farm Safety Capital Investment Scheme to help farmers improve safety standards and working conditions on their farms.

The closing date for applications is Friday, 15 May 2026. Farmers are advised to engage early with their agricultural advisor and respond promptly to any departmental queries to ensure payments can issue on time.