Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am satisfied that everything is being done to get supply into the country. That does not mean supply is easy to get or there are not challenges. My Department and I have been liaising closely with feed importers and fertiliser importers. We are in constant contact in that regard. There will be challenges over the next period. It is steady at present, particularly as regards feed over the next period. There are challenges relating to fertiliser in that it is not as available as it was, but I am hopeful that will reach a balance and a level. All the wholesalers and retailers are working closely with their customers and individual farmers to ensure supply. I will certainly continue to work with all in the sector to support them in the time ahead.

I referred to the European scheme. Capacity has been available in the past week through exceptional aid. Some €15 million has been made available from European central finances, which we can co-fund to provide support. I am looking to see how we can use that to best support various sectors as we work through this year.

See this speech in context