The Minister explained: "I recognise that some farmers have been concerned about this information being released into the public domain. However, there is a need for greater transparency in relation to public monies and the context in which these are paid.

"It is important that the general public understand that there are duties that farm businesses undertake and conditions they must meet, to be eligible for these payments.

"These payments are made only to farm businesses that meet scheme rules, demonstrate their compliance with a number of EU directives and other statutory requirements, or who have entered into undertakings to manage their land to an environmental standard higher than required by legislation.

"This is taxpayers' money and so the public have a right to know how much money is spent and what is sought in return.

"This approach to greater transparency for all EU funds is supported by the European Commission."

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