Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

That is the objective behind the fodder support scheme I have introduced, which is paying €100 per hectare, up to a maximum of €1,000 for 10 ha. That is intended to support farmers with the cost challenges involved in growing silage and saving hay this year. We, as a Government, very much recognise the difficulties at this time. The cost of fertiliser, in particular, has impacted farmers. The additional cost pressures for contractors also have an impact. That €1,000 will be a real help to farm families in meeting the challenge of growing silage and hay over the course of this summer.

Thankfully, we have had a good growing season so far. We must recognise the challenges we have and that they are the result of the war on European soil for the first time in a generation. We must also recognise that we cannot take things for granted in the coming winter and spring in a way we would have in the past. We must ensure our silage pits and hay barns are full. We must also ensure we are prepared to continue to produce food next winter and spring. As a Government, we stand alongside farmers and will work to support them to meet that challenge. I recognise the work farmers are doing in stepping up to the mark and thank them for it.

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