The Rural Affairs and the Environment Ministry has announced that farmers and villagers may start applying for EU assistance.

Among the schemes that will be made available for Maltese farmers this year, is the single payment scheme that will be introduced as part of the European Common Agricultural Policy, which has become applicable for Malta as from this year.

Other schemes are being offered for full-time farmers, those whose land is considered to be situated in a disadvantaged area, others who process tomatoes, grow potatoes and vines.

Those who applied for assistance involving agro-environmental measures during the past three years will also be able to re-apply to confirm their previous applications.

Applications will be received until 15 May, although the closing date will be extended by a further 25 days for late applicants. No applications will be received after 8 June. The payment agency will be receiving applications at Ghammieri in Marsa, the office of the fruit and vegetable market in Ta’ Qali, the Extension Service in Zabbar and the agriculture office in Victoria.

Further information may be obtained by calling the Ghammieri on 2590-4299 or the office of agriculture in Gozo on 2156-5809.