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Severe Weather Events

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 February 2013

Thursday, 7 February 2013

Questions (177)

Finian McGrath

Question:

177. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will support farmers affected by the shortage in fodder due to the increased fodder costs brought about by the inclement weather conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6564/13]

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Written answers

I acknowledge the financial difficulties experienced by farmers due the inclement weather conditions last year. In the present economic climate however, I am not in a position to provide additional financial supports to farmers from national funds.

To alleviate the pressures on farmers last year, I sought and received EU approval for the advance payment of the 2012 Single Payment Scheme. I also ensured that payments under other Schemes were brought forward to the earliest possible date. Over €1.6 billion was paid to farmers under the various schemes in 2012.

In addition, the closing dates for spreading of chemical and organic fertiliser were extended by 2 weeks to 30th September and 31st October 2012 respectively with the subsequent announcement by Minister Hogan on 26th October 2012 of further measures to alleviate the difficulties experienced by farmers. They included permitting the spreading of livestock manures produced on farms during the period 1st November to 16th November 2012, subject to notification, and the bringing forward by two weeks, the date for first spreading of livestock manures. These changes were aimed at maximising the opportunity for extending the grazing season on-farms and support farmers in addressing feed shortages.

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