The Irish Grain Growers’ Group (IGGG) has told Agriland that it understands that the new €100/ha tillage aid payment will cover all crops harvested in 2024.
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, confirmed details of the new support measure at Fianna Fáil’s Ard Fheis at the weekend.
IGGG chair, Bobby Miller said: “The minister’s announcement is a small step in the right direction. But, we need to see the full detail of what’s on offer to allow us make a final judgement.”
Miller is adamant that the new support measure must result in new funding for farmers.
IGGG has also welcomed the government’s reassurance that it remains committed to securing a tillage sector in Ireland with a 400,000ha footprint.
“Expanding the scope of the tillage sector is at the very heart of the government’s response to climate change.
“But, this objective must be turned into reality. Last week saw the final version of the Food Vision Tillage Group delivered to Minister McConalogue.
“The publication contains a number of strategic recommendations, which must be enacted by the government,” the IGGG chair stressed.
Tillage aid payment
Miller said that he is conscious that feed compounders and other stakeholders within the commercial grains sector must also act to support tillage farmers, given current circumstances.
“Allowing farmers to fix realistic prices for some of their grain now would be an example of steps that can be taken with immediate effect.
“We have seen key players within the agri-business sector committing support to the dairy industry over recent days, but nothing has been forthcoming for tillage farmers. This is a totally unacceptable situation.”
Meanwhile, the days ahead bring the prospect of some, much-needed spring weather.
Given these circumstances, Bobby Miller said that farmers and contractors around the country will be working day and night to catch up with field work.
“All of this brings with it an enhanced health and safety risk, so, I am reminding all farmers and contractors that they must make their own safety and that of their staff a priority at all times.
“An accident can happen in the blink of an eye. But they can be so easily prevented if operators always think safe while using machinery,” he said.