Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
1069. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is aware of concerns about farmers facing a shortage of fodder over the coming weeks; if he is considering supports for farmers with addressing this gap or with high costs of buying silage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13258/24]
View answerIn March 2022 I established the National Fodder and Food Security Committee as result of Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine. One of the aims of this committee was to put measures in place to ensure that there is enough fodder and feed for the winter and spring months. In late June, early July 2023 Teagasc carried out a Fodder Survey which was updated last October, indicated that nationally on average, dairy and drystock farms were on target for sufficient winter fodder supplies.
My Department monitors the fodder situation on an ongoing basis and I am advised that supplies are relatively stable on both dairy and beef farms. Teagasc have advised that silage is available to purchase, and that some farmers had included the option of purchase fodder in their winter feed budgeting plans.
Grass growth over the winter period has yielded strong pasture covers on farms. However, I am aware the risk of shortages is dependent on spring weather and the ability to turnout livestock to grass. My Department will continue to monitor the situation but at the moment there are no plans to introduce supports to assist farmers buying silage at this time.
