PROBLEMS with poor internet connections in rural areas are preventing many farmers from successfully completing their Single Application Form online, that have to be in by 15 May, 2015.
There have also been complaints that, despite the Scottish Government having spent more than £100m, the computer programme could have been much easier to use.
Fortunately, the Scottish Government has offered farmers the alternative of filling out "old-fashioned" paper forms - an option that could prove to be a vital lifeline for many.
A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: "With pre-populated data fields and automatic checking, the online application is designed to save time, minimise errors and ensure as efficient processing as possible, but we recognise that online applications do not suit everyone and paper applications are still welcome.
"Our processing team are also happy to support applicants who encounter any difficulties and, since this is a new system, we have been working with stakeholders to identify ways that we can implement improvements to the system, including an improved ability to print data that will assist applicants and agents complete their forms and submit them online."
NFU Scotland President Allan Bowie said: "We continue to have a regular and constructive dialogue with Scottish Government officials about the SAF online application system and what can be done to improve the functionality for farmers and farm advisors. Improvements are being delivered and we want that process to continue as issues arise.
"In the meantime we encourage farmers to register for the Rural Payments and Services system and make sure that all their details are up to date and correct. Whether farmers intend to complete their SAF online or on paper, they must register.
"In the coming days, Scottish Government will decide whether it will make use of any possible extension to the SAF deadline of 15 May. While detail from Europe on its proposal has yet to emerge, the Union's board will discuss the merits or otherwise of any extension at the start of next week".
Market round-up
The Cumberland and Dumfriesshire Farmers Mart had 16 prime cattle forward in Dumfries on Wednesday when heifers sold to 231.5p per kg and averaged 211.1p, while bullocks peaked at 213.5p and levelled at 209.6p.
There were 73 OTM cattle presented in the rough ring when beef cows averaged 130.1p and dairy cows levelled at 98.4p.
The firm also sold 611 prime hoggs to a top of £100 per head and 225p per kg to average 201.9p (+14p on the week).
The 150 cast sheep forward saw heavy ewes sell to £148.50 for Texels and average £112.34 (+£8.06), while light ewes peaked at £89.50 for Blackfaces and levelled at £72.01 (+£5.68).
United Auctions sold 711 store heifers at Stirling on Wednesday to a top of 303.3p and an average of 224.3p (-4p), while 1125 store, beef-bred bullocks peaked at 314p and levelled at 232.7p (-8.5p). Thirty-four store, B&W bullocks sold to 206.5p and averaged 172.6p (+9.3p), while 67 store bulls peaked at 288p and levelled at 223.1p.
In the rough ring 103 cows averaged 133.4p.
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