Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 April 2024
68. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he would consider opening up the fodder transport support scheme to include farmers who purchased fodder from longer distances from 31 January to 31 March; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18422/24]
View answerIn March 2022 I established the National Fodder and Food Security Committee. The remit of the Committee is to prepare an industry response, contingency plans and advice to assist farmers in managing their farm enterprises through difficult periods.
In recent months, in recognition of the ongoing and challenging weather conditions, I asked the Chairman to convene the Committee to establish the most up to date facts regarding the fodder and feed situation on farms and to provide advice to assist farmers through this challenging period.
The Committee at it's meeting on the 29 March, concluded that notwithstanding the difficulties that some farmers are experiencing, there were sufficient fodder stocks in the country. While ground conditions were challenging at that point, there was also a good supply of grass and Teagasc were advising farmers they should take any opportunities available, for instance using on-off grazing, to allow animals assess to grass.
I asked Teagasc to establish a system for co-ordinating advisory supports to help farmers maximise existing fodder stocks and provide a basis for those with surpluses to engage with those who need fodder.
The National Fodder and Food Security Committee met again on 9 April to get an update on the current situation across the country. At that meeting I announced the introduction of a Fodder Transport Support Measure to provide additional assistance to livestock farmers most severely affected by the prolonged exceptional weather conditions.
This measure resolves a key issue regarding the cost of transporting fodder between those areas where fodder is plentiful and those where it is scarce. It was clear to me that since the previous meeting in late March conditions had worsened and feed availability was an issue in certain parts of the country.
A financial contribution is being provided to farmers to offset transport costs of Hay, Fodder Beet, Straw and Silage for feeding, during the period 1 April to 15 May, where this involves a distance of more than 75 km. I'm satisfied - following my interactions with the Committee - that from early April the issue became more acute and hence support was warranted.
While the weather in recent days has improved the matter of fodder supply will be kept under review in the coming weeks and months to ensure sufficient fodder is available for livestock farmers.
