As the wet weather continues, Sinn Féin spokesperson on agriculture, Claire Kerrane, has said that government response is “not good enough”.
The deputy said that there have been “repeated calls” to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue to introduce specific measures to support farmers, as turnout of livestock is delayed further.
Deputy Kerrane said that she called on the minister to consider delays to farm inspections, which has since been announced, but that “any further response has not been outlined”.
“So far, the government’s response to the challenges of the heavy rainfall and soil conditions is seriously lacking.
“Farmers and farm organisations have made clear the strain the situation is causing farmers and they have outlined the need for support with managing difficult soil conditions as a result of the weather, and continued delays to turnout of livestock and planting,” Deputy Kerrane said.
Wet weather
Weather will continue to be unsettled this week, according to Met Éireann.
It is expected that drying conditions will be generally moderate to poor because of the frequent showers and rain.
Deputy Kerrane said that the wet weather is affecting every sector, and that a “comprehensive response” was needed.
“Farmers are solution-oriented and know what supports they need to deal with challenges as they arise. The very least the minister and his department can do is listen and consider these suggestions as part of their response,” Deputy Kerrane said.
“It is unfair to keep farmers waiting for supports, particularly when so many are under real pressure and when they need those supports now.
“I have called on the government to outline their response and they must provide that clarification urgently,” the deputy added.