John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are all aware the fodder crisis has come to a head in the last number of weeks. It is a difficult time for the farming community throughout the country. It has been stressful for all involved. Farmers have watched their fodder diminish while the weather conditions were harsh and there was little prospect of grass growth.

However, because this matter has been in the headlines in recent weeks, everyone is aware of it. I pay tribute to the Minister for his hands-on approach, which his officials, the various agencies, Teagasc and all the co-operatives adopted. There was a spirit of teamwork, togetherness and co-operation. It was truly remarkable. If we were honest, we would all admit to having seen this at local level in our constituencies. I saw it in Mayo. It was a case of farmer helping farmer, which demonstrated a sense of community and togetherness above and beyond the call of duty.

The idea of paying for the transport of fodder, thus reducing the cost to the farmer, was an immediate and most effective way of passing on a direct benefit to the farmer within a few days of the announcement of the €1 million package. I welcome the extension of the initiative. It is being reviewed constantly, the idea being that whatever needs to be done will be done. Emergency animal welfare assistance is also in place. Calls are coming through and the emergency is being dealt with. The knock-on effects are such that what happens from now on will be important. The lack of funds among farmers is being met through ongoing contact between the Minister and financial institutions. This is important. The co-operatives have offered interest-free credit. Connacht Gold, in my constituency, invited farmers to contact it with a view to stating what is available. Even in the immediate aftermath of this crisis, which seems to have been abating in recent days, it will be important to have the same spirit of togetherness, led by the Minister. It is in this way that the problem will be addressed successfully.

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