Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I can reassure Deputy Pringle on that point. The Deputy made the case that money was made available to farmers last year. At that time, animals throughout the country were in a very serious state. Indeed, in particular areas, there was no hay available and animals were starving. Farmers were facilitated by the importation of fodder from England and parts of France and its distribution around the country. That was a success story and why would people not welcome it? There was huge concern in April and May last year because animals were starving because of the lack of fodder.

On the issue of fishermen, I will talk to officials in the Department to ascertain whether funding is available from Europe for which we can apply. If there is any other way we can help fishermen, we will do so.

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