All applicants to the Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM) will be accepted into the scheme.

The SIM was oversubscribed this year by about €5.7m, but last year there was an underspend in the €10m budget.

Last week, the Irish Farmers Journal revealed that there was record demand for straw chopping under the scheme, with a total os 66,482ha entered into the scheme from 3,057 applications.

Many farmers across the country are looking at poor spring cereal crops and the SIM will be very important for these low-yielding crops.

Commenting on the positive news for tillage farmers, Minister Heydon said: “The Straw Incorporation Measure has proven to be a very popular scheme with tillage farmers again in 2025. To ensure all farmers who have applied can be paid, I have made certain that the necessary funding is in place.

Economic boost

“Over 66,000 hectares of cereals and oilseed rape straw has been submitted for chopping and incorporating in 2025. This scheme, along with giving tillage farmers an economic boost, is also ensuring an increase in carbon sequestration and shows the commitment of Irish farmers to the climate and environment.”

The Minister noted that farmers will receive their acceptance letters for SIM in the coming weeks, but that it is possible for farmers to withdraw from the scheme in certain circumstances.

He noted: "For example, where straw is required for livestock feeding. Therefore, I would encourage livestock and tillage farmers to engage fully in the coming weeks to ensure that the needs of both sectors are met.”

Farmers wishing to contact the Department regarding their SIM payment can ring the direct payments helpline at 057-867 4422 or by email to tillage@agriculture.gov.ie.