Scotting Crofting Federation chair Jonathan Hedges said: "We have repeatedly warned that disproportionate Whole Farm Plan measures will lead to crofters dropping out of the system – up until now, we have just not been listened to."
Crofters have warned there needs to be a rethink on a 'one-size-fits-all' model to the Whole Farm Plan.
Scottish Crofting Federation (SCF) chief executive Donna Smith confirmed Mr Fairlie has agreed to meet the organisation over the next few months to discuss how the Whole Farm Plan Requirements can be more 'proportionate' for crofters.
The Whole Farm Plan is a way of measuring the impact of a farm or croft and is a prerequisite to qualify for Basic Payments.
Scottish Government said the scheme aims to identify opportunities for farmers to improve sustainability and profitability in their business.
Farmers must complete two of five available audits before May 15 2025 to ensure they are paid; from a choice of a biodiversity audit, carbon audit, soil analysis, animal health and welfare plan, and an integrated pest management plan.
On Wednesday (February 19), the Scottish Parliament's Rural Affairs and Islands Committee discussed the statutory instrument that will make the Whole Farm Plan a legal requirement under Scottish law.
SCF has warned the measure could lead to crofters 'being left behind' in the system and that there needs to be questions over the suitability of a 'universal' system which does not meet the needs of all crofters and producers in Scotland.
"We have repeatedly warned that disproportionate Whole Farm Plan measures will lead to crofters dropping out of the system – up until now, we have just not been listened to," SCF chair Jonathan Hedges said.
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"However, we welcome Mr. Fairlie's invitation and are keen to discuss how we can make this work for crofters – but words must be followed by deeds."
Mr. Fairlie said he will listen to crofters' concerns and he hopes to build a constructive working relationship with the sector.
And the Whole Farm Plan will ensure Scotland's agriculture sector is 'successful and sustainable' in the future, according to Scotland's Agriculture Minister.
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