Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy is aware I introduced the Fodder Import Support Measure on the 5th April 2018 to provide an additional source of fodder to livestock farmers at an important time when supplies of fodder nationally were very tight. The Measure will make a financial contribution towards the transport costs associated with the importation of fodder from other Member States, excluding Northern Ireland. The closing date for the Measure was initially Monday 30th April 2018 but due to the prevailing conditions at that time I extended the closing date by one week to the 7th May 2018 thereby giving support to farmers in need of additional fodder.

Approved Co-ops and importers have submitted the applications, supporting documentation and relevant information on the quantity of fodder imported. The actual quantity of fodder imported will only be available when processing of applications is completed.

Funding made available was estimated to provide for the importation of up to 20,000 tonnes of fodder into the country. However it is estimated that approximately 18,000 tonnes was imported thereby achieving its purpose and within the budgetary allocation.

By way of information, the Fodder Import Transport Scheme that operated in 2013 was introduced on the 15th April 2013 and ran until end of May that year. A total of €2.8 million issued to 18,000 beneficiaries under the scheme covering approximately 40,000 tonnes of imported fodder at that time.