Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2018
440. Deputy Michael Harty asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if inspections on farms in County Clare will be suspended for the duration of the fodder crisis as a contribution to ameliorating the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17619/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU regulations governing the Direct Payment Schemes and Rural Development measures require my Department to conduct inspections to ensure compliance with scheme eligibility criteria and Cross Compliance requirements. These inspections, including cross compliance, are mandatory and there are minimum numbers and types of inspections that must take place annually.
My Department's inspecting officers are fully aware of the difficulties being encountered by farmers due to the adverse weather conditions and the associated fodder issues. Each inspected case will have all factors, including the poor weather conditions, taken into account both during the inspection and when arriving at any decision on the outcome of an inspection.
Inspecting Officers endeavour to maintain a positive engagement with farmers and to be mindful of any situation where it is evident that a farmer may be under stress.
