Fodder Crisis

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 May 2013

Tuesday, 21 May 2013

Questions (707)

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

707. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport in view of the decision taken by the Shannon Airport Authority to allow farming organisations to cut grass on property owned by it to help alleviate fodder shortages in the local area, if he will ask those agencies, companies, authorities, boards and so on who come within his remit to consider similar initiatives on suitable public lands owned by them in conjunction with representatives of local farming organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23774/13]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

I very much welcome the initiative by Shannon Airport Authority to help alleviate the fodder shortages in their local area I understand that the Dublin Airport Authority have undertaken a similar initiative.  I have forwarded the Deputy's suggestion to all of the agencies under my remit for their information and consideration.  If an agency has suitable lands for grass cutting, it will be a matter for the agency if it deems it appropriate to liaise with the relevant farming organisations.