Holly Cairns
Question:3396. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will add shearing as a qualification measure for the sheep welfare scheme. [40169/21]
View answerTuesday, 27 July 2021
Questions (3396)
Written answers
I am very conscious of the important role that the sheep sector plays in the continued growth and development of our agri-food sector, and its valuable contribution to the rural economy. I fully support the sheep sector.
The strong performance of the sector in 2020 has continued into 2021. Reductions in production globally and increased demand are expected to support continued strong performance throughout 2021. The current average price as reported on 22nd July is €6.33 per kg, which is 20% above the same period last year.
The Sheep Welfare Scheme was introduced in December 2016 as part of Ireland’s Rural Development Programme, having been agreed with the European Commission. In the four years of the scheme to date, €66.9 million has been paid to 18,268 farmers. The Sheep Welfare scheme has been extended in 2021 as part of the transition arrangements prior to the next CAP. There are currently no plans to add additional measures to this Scheme.