All sides working to alleviate fodder shortage – D’arcy

Representation to Ag Minister will have direct benefit for Louth farmersFine Gael Louth Senator, Jim D’arcy, has welcomed the extension by the Minister for Agriculture, Simon Coveney TD, of the duration of the Imported Fodder Transport Scheme (IFTS), which he said will have a direct impact on farmers experiencing difficult in the Louth region.

Senator D’arcy was speaking following representations he made this week to the Minister for Agriculture in relation to a shipment of hay being imported from France by the IFA, which is due to arrive in Co. Louth next week.

“The decision by the Agriculture Minister to extend the duration of the IFTS recognises the hardship being experienced by farmers right across the country as a result of the harsh winter and a poor fodder yield. The Minister has said that no animal in Ireland should die of starvation and I am satisfied that the situation is being closely monitored and that help is available to farmers in need.

“The IFTS is now being extended until 10th May and maize silage is also now eligible under the scheme. Minister Coveney has been working closely with farming organisations and co-ops to ensure that fodder is being distributed where it is needed and that farmers are getting help on the ground and to see them through what are no doubt very tough times.

“Where access to credit is concerned, the Minister has been speaking to the banks to stress the importance of making credit facilities available to struggling farmers. These difficulties are the result of nothing more than bad weather and equally bad luck. By pulling together, the farming community has proven that it can and will support each of its own until grass growing conditions improve.

“The cooperation of the dairy co-ops over the past few weeks has been invaluable, offering, as they have, interest free credit for fertiliser as well as reduced prices for feed supplies.
“The extension of this scheme will ensure that the cost of transporting the shipment of hay which is due in Louth next week from France is not prohibitive. I would urge any farmer who is in need of assistance to make their situation known by calling the emergency helpline number on 1850 21 19 90.”

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