Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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346. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will extend the closing date of the fodder transport subsidy scheme from 3 May 2013 at least to mid May; if he will extend the existing distribution network to livestock marts and private merchants to expedite the alleviation of the fodder crisis across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21440/13]

Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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350. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will extend the closing date of the fodder transport subsidy scheme from 3 May to at least mid May; if he will extend the existing distribution network to lifestock marts and private merchants to expedite the alleviation of the fodder crises here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21525/13]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 346 and 350 together.

In light of the continuing fodder problem, I announced last week that the duration of the Imported Fodder Transport Scheme has been extended until Friday 10th May. I am satisfied that the volume of imported fodder is making a real difference on farms and assisting farmers through the current shortage. The extension of the scheme for a further week will build on this and ensure that further supplies are imported with the benefit of the transport subsidy.

Apart from this initiative on the fodder transport scheme, I have addressed the issue of credit facilities with the banks and the co-ops. The banks have been requested to take a flexible approach towards extending credit to farmer customers at this difficult time. The co-ops responded already with the introduction of interest free credit to farmers for the purchase of fertiliser in the month of May, which will be a key component in addressing this year’s fodder problem. I am keeping the matter under constant review.