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 2025 Beef Welfare Scheme (BWS) — a €28 million support package for suckler farmers across Ireland.
Minister Canney said the scheme represents a “significant boost” for farmers in Galway and nationwide, with increased funding, a higher number of animals eligible for payment, and a wider range of practical measures to improve animal performance.
“This is very welcome news for suckler farmers,” Minister Canney said. “The increase in the upper limit for eligible animals, combined with straightforward, on-farm measures, will help farm families maintain high standards of animal welfare and secure additional income.”
Under the 2025 BWS, all suckler farmers with eligible calves born between 1 July 2024 and 30 June 2025 can apply. Supports will be available for meal feeding calves at weaning and for other voluntary actions that can increase payments.
Farmers can also take part in both the BWS and the five-year Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP), with the potential to earn up to €225 per cow/calf pair for the first 22 pairs in a herd.
Key details:
- Applications must be made online via agfood.ie by 24 September 2025 — late applications will not be accepted.
- Payments to eligible participants are expected to begin in December 2025.
- Farmers are advised to retain receipts and records for all selected actions to ensure smooth payment processing.
Minister Canney added: “This targeted investment reflects the Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting the suckler sector, which is such an important part of our rural economy. I encourage all eligible farmers to review the scheme terms and apply in good time.”
Full terms and conditions are available on the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s website.
