COVID-19 support scheme for potato sector now open

UFU potato committee chair Robert Sibbett Jnr. said: “The opening of the COVID-19 support scheme for potato growers will be well received among our members. Like all farmers across Northern Ireland, they have been hit hard by the pandemic due to market disruptions.

“This is positive news at a time when our growers have been battling against the elements that are out of their control, and the scheme will provide the support they need to help stabilise and sustain their farm businesses.

“It is a busy time of year for our growers, but I encourage them to look into the scheme as soon as possible. If they are eligible, they should ensure that they give themselves plenty of time to complete the application form and get it sent before the deadline on 30 September 2020. Should members need help with photocopying allowing them to meet the scheme criteria, our UFU group offices are open and will be happy to help our members in any way they can.”

The scheme is targeted at potato producers who specialise in supplying potatoes for processing to meet food service and hospitality industry needs, and incurred loss due to the closure of these markets during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The online application form is available at https://consultations.nidirect.gov.uk/daera-safdd/application-for-potato-coronavirus-scheme and applications close at midnight on Wednesday 30 September.