621. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if everyone who entered the SIM scheme (details supplied) will be paid in full; to increase the funds for the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51582/26]

The Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM) is a support Measure for tillage farmers which encourages them to increase soil organic carbon levels by chopping and incorporating straw from cereal and oilseed rape crops.

Under the CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023-2027, SIM has an overall allocation of €50 million with a projected annual spend of €10 million. Applications in 2026 amount to in excess of €16 million.

The Terms and Conditions for BISS and other area-based schemes sets out the various means by which the payment rates will be decided upon in circumstances where claims, as in 2026, are in excess of the available budget, namely:

• a linear cut to the rate of payment

• a degressive payment, and/or

• acceptance based on the application of tiered applications.

I'm acutely aware how important SIM is to tillage farmers and also the importance of farmers having certainty.

At present all possible options are being considered and a decision will be made shortly to allow farmers to plan accordingly.