Northern Ireland minister announces further extension of the Protein Crop Scheme

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir MLA has today announced that the Northern Ireland pilot Protein Crop Scheme will be extended to the end of 2027.

Since the introduction of the pilot scheme in 2021, the area of protein crops grown increased to 802 ha in 2024, decreasing to 422ha in 2026. The main protein crops grown over this period is spring field beans followed by spring bean.

A project is currently underway to assess the environmental and economic benefits for farmers, and to Northern Ireland, from growing protein crops. This project is due to conclude in May 2027.

Minister Muir said: The extended pilot scheme will therefore now run to the end of the 2027 scheme year to allow a full assessment of the environmental and sustainability benefits which protein crops can deliver.

Under the scheme, farmers will receive £330 per hectare in addition to their Basic Payment / Farm Sustainability Payment. The maximum annual supported area under the scheme is 1,300ha.

Farmers wishing to apply for the Protein Crop Scheme next year should do so via the annual Single Application in 2027.

Notes to editors:

1. In 2026 the area of Protein Crops grown under the PCS was 422 ha of protein crops.
2. The main protein crop grown is spring field beans followed by spring peas.
3. The crop is used to supplement protein sources in livestock rations.