What is the Teagasc Schemes Support Unit?

The SSU provides helpdesk support to Teagasc advisors in the key areas of BISS, ACRES, TAMS/Derogation/Nitrates and other evolving schemes. Here on the Schemes Update Page in Today’s Farm, the Teagasc Schemes Support Unit aims to keep readers informed about current schemes.

As simple as A, B, C, D

Before submitting a scheme application with your Teagasc advisor, try the A, B, C, D approach.

A – Assess scheme terms and conditions

Download scheme terms and conditions from the website of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. If there is something that you are unsure about, seek clarity from your Teagasc advisor. Abiding by the rules of any scheme is key.

B – Benefits of the scheme

Farmers are rightly interested in the monetary benefits of a scheme. However, other benefits should be examined closely. For farmers who entered ACRES and selected the hedge planting options, their farms will reap the long-term benefits of excellent stockproof hedges, which are also important wildlife habitats.

C – Complete scheme actions required

Carrying out the scheme actions requires discipline and diligence. Scheme tasks must be carefully planned. The National Dairy Beef Weighing Scheme, for example, involves hiring scales, organising extra labour for the day, and inputting weight data to DAFM. In simple terms – Do not sign up for a scheme unless you are confident that you have the ability to complete scheme actions.

D – Dates and documents

All schemes are subject to inspection or administrative checks by the Department. Take note of key dates. Participants in SCEP are working towards the key date of 31st October 2027, when they are required to have 75% 4/5 star breeding females in their herds. Important scheme documents should be carefully filed (e.g., copy of application, purchase invoices required). This will help ease stress levels should you be selected for inspection.

How to successfully participate in a scheme

• Assess the scheme’s financial and other benefits.
• Carry out scheme tasks in a timely manner.
• Know the key scheme dates.
• Submit the required scheme documents.

Follow the A, B, C, D approach for successful scheme completion.

2026 Key Scheme Deadlines

TAMS 3 Deadlines for 2026

• TAMS Tranche 11 closes 6/3/2026.
• TAMS Tranche 12 closes 5/6/2026.
• TAMS Tranche 13 closes 4/9/2026.
• TAMS Tranche 14 closes 4/12/2026.

BISS 2026

• iNet to open in mid-February.
• Farmers to receive form and maps by post in mid-February.
• Protein Aid and Straw Incorporation Schemes for 2026.
• No Multi Species Scheme or Red Clover Scheme in 2026.

Livestock Schemes 2026

• National Sheep Welfare Scheme.
• Sheep Improvement Scheme (Year 4).
• Dairy Beef Weighing Scheme.
• Dairy Beef Welfare Scheme (Year 3).
• National Beef Welfare Scheme to open in late Summer 2026.

ECO Scheme 2026

• AP1 Spaces for Nature – some areas may be reclassified.
• AP4 Planting trees and hedges: plants must be in the ground and receipts uploaded during BISS 2026 application.

GAEC 7 2026

• Where an entire holding (arable + grass) is less than 30 hectares, there is no 2-crop rule for 2026.