Peter Burke
Ceist:760. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline details of the plans for the silage support scheme; and when it will be open for applications. [24233/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 17 May 2022
Ceisteanna (760)
Freagraí scríofa
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 24 February 2022 and the significant impact this has had on the cost of agricultural inputs required to conserve grass for silage and/or hay.
The scheme will require approval from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and my Department is continuing to engage with that Department on the funding aspects of the scheme.
I expect to announce further details on the proposed scheme shortly. The aim of the scheme will be to support our farm families to save silage and hay this year to ensure that we have adequate stocks of fodder over the winter and spring.
This proposed Fodder Support Scheme is in addition to the €12.2 million Targeted Intervention Package I announced on 22 March 2022. That financial support, and those currently under discussion, will assist farmers in providing sufficient fodder for Winter 2022. I remain committed to standing by our farm families during this time of crisis.