The Beef Welfare Scheme 2026 is now open for applications, providing support of up to €75 per eligible suckler calf where all three scheme actions are completed.
The scheme is open to suckler farmers only, with eligible calves having been born between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026.
Payments are available on a maximum of 45 eligible calves, giving a potential maximum payment of €3,375 per participant.
Action 1 – Meal Feeding
Mandatory – up to €35 per calf
Meal feeding must be provided to eligible calves:
- For at least 4 weeks before weaning
- For at least 2 weeks after weaning
This action is mandatory for participation in the scheme.
Action 2 – Vaccination
Optional – up to €15 per calf
Farmers who select the vaccination action must implement a vaccination programme against one or more of the following:
- Clostridial diseases
- Calf pneumonia
- Bluetongue
Details of the vaccination programme and vaccinations administered must be recorded and retained as part of the scheme records.
Action 3 – Faecal or Forage Testing
Optional – up to €25 per calf
Farmers can choose one of the following options:
Option 1 – Faecal Testing
- Complete 2 faecal tests
- There must be a minimum of 4 weeks between each test
- Samples must be submitted for testing for the specified parasites
Option 2 – Forage Testing
- Take 3 forage samples
- Submit the samples for testing
Maximum Payment
Farmers completing all three actions can receive up to:
- €35 – Meal Feeding
- €15 – Vaccination
- €25 – Faecal/Forage Testing
Total: up to €75 per eligible calf
With payment available on a maximum of 45 calves, the maximum potential payment is:
€3,375 per farm
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by 5pm on 23 September 2026.
Farmers should ensure that they understand the requirements of each selected action and maintain the necessary records and supporting documentation throughout the scheme period.
If you are a suckler farmer and would like assistance with your Beef Welfare Scheme 2026 application or checking the requirements, please get in touch with Temple Agri Consultancy Ltd.
For more information on terms and conditions, please visit: www.gov.ie – Beef Welfare Scheme 2026.
