Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2017
933. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the decision not to provide compensation for farmers that lost their potato and grain crops as a result of the flooding in County Donegal in August 2017 will be reconsidered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46429/17]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware I visited the affected areas in County Donegal with my Government colleague Minster of State Joe McHugh following the exceptional rainfall of August 22 last to see at first-hand some of the very significant problems that a number of farmers faced as a result. I committed during my visit to supporting these farmers.
In the immediate aftermath of the flood I prioritised the availability of support by means of the Animal Welfare Helpline which includes responding to urgent requirements for emergency feed provision. In addition advice was provided to affected farmers in dealing with the immediate challenges that arose.
The principal and most widespread impacts of the floods on farms in the Inishowen Peninsula centred on damage to land, fencing, fodder and livestock. To address these pressing issues in the most effective manner I introduced a targeted measure of assistance. Support under this measure applies to losses of livestock, conserved fodder (Hay or Silage) and as a contribution towards the clean-up cost of agricultural lands, including repair to fences, damaged by debris washed up by the floods. The measure is subject to the provisions of EU de minimis state aid rules in the agriculture sector and only losses not covered by insurance are eligible for consideration.
As I indicated previously, while it is not possible to address all of the problems the unprecedented rainfall caused on farms this measure is, in my view, a most comprehensive, timely and appropriate response to the main difficulties farmers there had to deal with. The measure closed for applications on Friday 29 September and these are now being processed as quickly as possible. On-the-spot verification of applications for support is also fully underway and will be concluded shortly.
