Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise the issue of the fodder transportation subsidy. Farm organisations have been highlighting for some time the serious fodder shortage, in particular along the Border counties of Cavan, Monaghan, Donegal and in the west and north west. Teagasc, among others, has highlighted the issue. Unfortunately, the Government was slow coming out of the blocks but eventually it introduced a fodder transportation subsidy to help farmers with transportation costs if they are forced to buy fodder, for example, round bales of hay or silage from various parts of the country, mainly from the south.

It was with dismay this morning that I listened to a gentleman by the name of Hugh Farrell from Ballyconnell, County Cavan. He was representing the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers' Association. He highlighted the fact that four counties had been left out of the scheme, namely, Cavan, Monaghan, Roscommon and Longford. He was totally dismayed by the development. I would like the Minister to come into the House, if possible today, to outline what criteria were used by the Department in how it defined what counties and what farmers in those counties were entitled to the fodder subsidy.

From talking to affected farmers in various parts of the country I also learned that the subsidy is very cumbersome and there is a lot of red tape involved. The order for silage or hay must go through the local co-op whereas heretofore farmers did it themselves. I compliment the farming community on how farmers have looked out for each other and helped each other. This is a serious issue for the farmers in Cavan, Monaghan, Longford and Roscommon. They need help just like others. I ask the Leader to bring the Minister into the House, if possible today, and outline to us what criteria are involved and to ensure that those counties that are affected are included in the fodder scheme. Farmers are going through a very stressful time and they do not have enough fodder to keep their animals alive.