Isle of Man Guide

The much debated and considered Countryside Care Scheme, which replaces the majority of Government production subsidies to farmers with a payment in return for complying with substantial countryside maintenance requirements, was launched during March and took effect from the 1st April.

More than 350 people attended the Countryside Care Scheme launch events during March. The aim of these events was to inform farmers about how the Scheme applies to their business, what they must do to be eligible under the Scheme and to give farmers a practical overview of the Scheme. All those who attended were also given a Farmer’s Handbook which provides comprehensive guidance on the operation of the Scheme.

Farmers who have concerns about how to complete the application form or any other aspect of the Scheme have also been given the opportunity to attend a number of surgeries during April, where Department staff have been on hand to deal with any queries on a one to one basis.

To date the surgeries have been well attended; the final surgery takes place today (Friday) at Malew Parish Hall.

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