Fodder concerns - Budget 2027 may offer some relief for farmers
A request for additional supports for the farming sector as it navigates the challenge of drought and fodder concerns, will be considered in the context of Budget 2027.
That's according to Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon who today (Tuesday, August 18) convened a meeting with Teagasc and the main farm organisations to discuss the impact of the prolonged dry weather on farming.
The informal meeting was not a full meeting of the National Fodder and Food Security Committee.
This committee includes representatives from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), Teagasc, Bord Bia, farm organisations, banks, industry representative bodies and farming media.
However, the minister has now requested the chair of that committee, Mike Magan to convene a meeting "soon" and Agriland understands that meeting is expected to take place before the end of next week.
Drought challenges
At today's meeting, Minister Heydon acknowledged that this is a stressful time for farmers particularly in the east and south of the country, the regions most impacted by the current prolonged dry spell.
The meeting was an opportunity for stakeholder organisations to outline the challenges that farmers are currently dealing with.
Minister Heydon said: “It is important that farmers take appropriate action to ensure sufficient fodder stocks for the coming winter.
"Completing a fodder budget is critical to establish if and what action needs to be taken at farm level, regionally and nationally.
"In light of the evolving situation, farmers should continue to update their fodder budget on Pasturebase Ireland or through their advisor."
The minister admitted that the current situation is adding costs on affected farms and has encouraged farmers to engage with their banks, merchants and co-ops on any cash flow concerns.
"The government is committed to supporting the sector in what has been a difficult year," Heydon added.
"The call from farm organisations for additional supports will be considered when the full picture is available and in the context of Budget 2027.
"Many farm organisations also called for flexibilities on a range of measures, which will be kept under review.
"I would encourage farmers to reach out for support – whether that is to their advisor, their farm organisation or the many other support services. Help and advice is available."
