Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 May 2022
872. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will extend the silage payment scheme to dairy farmers who are struggling with the escalating price inflation of manure, fuel and feeds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23300/22]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that on 3rd May 2022, I brought a Memorandum for Information to Government on a proposed Fodder Support Scheme, in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24th February 2022 and the significant impact this has had on the cost of agricultural inputs required to conserve grass for silage and/or hay.
Any Fodder Support Scheme would have to be targeted towards those farmers who are facing the greatest difficulty so as to achieve the objective of securing sufficient fodder. According to recent Teagasc survey data, this is more of a challenge in relation to the beef and sheep sectors than it is for the dairy sector. In addition, in light of current milk prices, the economic viability of Dairy farming in general, is stronger than beef or sheep farming.
The proposed scheme will require approval from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and my Department is continuing to engage with that Department around the funding aspect of the scheme.
The proposed Fodder Support scheme is in addition to the €12.2 million Targeted Intervention Package that I announced on 22nd March 2022. That financial support and the measure currently under discussion will assist farmers in providing sufficient fodder for the coming winter and following spring. I remain committed to standing by our farm families during this time of crisis.
