SAF deadline - not to be missed!

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 22nd Apr 2009

With the deadline for submitting Single Application Forms just a few weeks away, Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs, Mick Bates AM, is urging farmers to complete their Single Application Form as soon as possible to avoid any financial penalty and ensure payments are received.

Commenting Mick stated:

"May 15th is a key date for farmers in Wales, who often rely so heavily on the Single Payment to keep their business going throughout the year. It is crucial that all forms are properly completed and returned by this date, to avoid any penalties and to ensure that payments are received as soon as the payment window opens in December.

"Late payments can decrease the viability of our Welsh agricultural industry and over the past few years have had a serious impact on farmers' cash flow. Over the next few months I will be pressing the Minister to ensure that all administrative technicalities have been resolved and there will be no further problems this year in validating claims, so that all farmers in Wales can receive their payments on time."

Notes:

If farmers have not received a SAF form or require help and guidance they are advised to contact their local Divisional Office.

Forms that arrive after the penalty period - 16th May-9th June - will be rejected in full.

Ends/Diwedd