Mayo farmers must be supported in face of weather challenges

FARMERS in County Mayo must be supported in the face of weather conditions that are creating significant pressures on farms, says Deputy Alan Dillon.

A difficult autumn in 2023 and persistent rain this spring have delayed livestock turnout, disrupted spring plantings, and caused difficulties with other fieldwork.

Met Éireann weather stations have recorded significant rainfall, with Knock Airport showing 140.7 mm of rainfall in March 2024.

Said Deputy Dillon: “I know how important agriculture is to the local economy and Fine Gael is committed to delivering for rural Ireland and farmers.

“Right now, weather conditions are hammering farmer morale and we are moving into an unprecedented territory on farms. Farmers are acting responsibly but the reality is that the weather is preventing livestock turnout, spring planting, and other fielding right across the country, including in Mayo.

“This is causing untold stress for farmers who are trying to manage a difficult situation. I welcome the pausing of all non-essential farm inspection until April 22 to provide farmers with breathing space. We are in a position where every and all option to support them needs to be considered if these difficult conditions persist.”

Deputy Dillon called on government and all in the sector to come together to provide a coordinated response to the situation facing farmers.

FG Minister of State in the Department of Agriculture, Martin Heydon, said that any measure which could offer a reprieve for farmers until the conditions improve was being looked at.

The food and fodder security committee has met and a system is being put in place to coordinate existing feed supplies to ensure any surpluses are available to those struggling. They also also engaging with financial institutions to emphasise the need for short term finance on farms where cashflow is a difficulty, and in addition to pausing non-essential inspections the department is exploring any flexibilities that can be offered around schemes and administration.