Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This current dry spell is having a significant impact across many sectors, not only in the agricultural sphere but also throughout the wider community. I view the first priority for farmers as the need to protect their livestock and fodder crops, ensure access to fresh water for livestock and, once this dry spell concludes, ensure adequate fodder provision for the winter ahead.

To plan for the coming winter, I formed a representative group chaired by Teagasc and including, among others, stakeholders such as co-ops, banks, and farming bodies to co-ordinate advisory messages to farmers this summer in the context of replenishing stocks that have been used up and also managing grazing and fodder throughout this extended period of extraordinarily dry weather.

The group has met on two occasions. I joined the second meeting of the group by phone link in order to keep informed of its actions in support of livestock farmers affected by dry conditions. The group is scheduled to meet again next week and continue on until the issue of next winter’s fodder needs are fully addressed.

In support of this work, on 26 June, I launched a national fodder census to be compiled by Teagasc, through its client network as well as clients of other fodder stakeholders, with another census planned for 1 September. The aim of the census is to monitor and measure the levels of fodder in the country. The census will inform further actions that may be necessary in the autumn.

Detailed agronomic advice is being regularly co-ordinated and communicated to farmers by bodies represented on the fodder group, including through our own social media account.

In addition, Teagasc has established a dedicated helpline to provide advice to farmers affected by the ongoing drought. This is being supplemented by a series of local meetings and clinics at which farmers can obtain direct support from Teagasc advisers. The helpline will operate daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

This helpline service and local clinics are open to all farmers, including non-Teagasc clients.

Co-ops and feed compounders represented on the group have increased feed output to meet demand.

Banking institutions are working closely with farmer customers on effective financial planning to see them through the current difficult spell.

In order to support them in protecting the future of their crops and animals, it is essential that farmers should have access to measures that improve their resilience to these recent weather events. I have asked my officials to examine all available risk management tools to determine which may be the most appropriate to the farming sector.

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