Rural TDs have issued calls for the government to step in and offer supports to farmers with a shortage of fodder on their farms.
Tipperary TD Mattie McGrath, leader of the Rural Independent Group, has urgently called on the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, to establish a new national fodder support scheme 2024 without delay.
McGrath highlighted that of farmers have had to house their cattle since last autumn due to an “extraordinarily harsh and prolonged winter”.
He said this has led to a spike in feed demand, thrusting many farmers into a state of acute financial distress.
McGrath said: “The situation is dire. My office is overwhelmed with calls from farmers out of silage, a number that’s set to rise if the wet weather persists.
With some families on the brink of financial collapse and alternative fodder sources scarce, the need for intervention is critical.
“Despite the national fodder and food security committee meeting last week, no action to support farmers emerged from the meeting, leaving farmers under continued pressure,” he added.
Today, Minister McConalogue announced a pause to all non-essential agricultural inspections until April 22.
“As an immediate step I have asked my department to pause farm inspections not specifically required to support payments until April 22. In considering this matter, I was conscious of the need to avoid any action that might affect payments to farmers,” the minister said.
“This step is a proportionate and necessary one in the current circumstances,” he added.
Meanwhile, Cork South-West TD and Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins has criticized the department’s focus on farm inspections rather than providing much-needed support.
Collins said: “The mental toll this winter has exacted on our farmers is immense, both financially and personally.
“It’s time for the minister and his officials to acknowledge the severity of the situation and respond accordingly.
“The minister must announce a fodder support scheme without delay, demonstrating the government’s recognition of the unforeseen trials facing our farmers.
“The scheme should extend to every farmer—dairy, beef, sheep, or tillage—each facing their own unique set of pressures,” Collins added.