Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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872. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will extend the silage payment scheme to dairy farmers who are struggling with the escalating price inflation of manure, fuel and feeds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23300/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy will be aware that on 3rd May 2022, I brought a Memorandum for Information to Government on a proposed Fodder Support Scheme, in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24th February 2022 and the significant impact this has had on the cost of agricultural inputs required to conserve grass for silage and/or hay.

Any Fodder Support Scheme would have to be targeted towards those farmers who are facing the greatest difficulty so as to achieve the objective of securing sufficient fodder. According to recent Teagasc survey data, this is more of a challenge in relation to the beef and sheep sectors than it is for the dairy sector. In addition, in light of current milk prices, the economic viability of Dairy farming in general, is stronger than beef or sheep farming.

The proposed scheme will require approval from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and my Department is continuing to engage with that Department around the funding aspect of the scheme.

The proposed Fodder Support scheme is in addition to the €12.2 million Targeted Intervention Package that I announced on 22nd March 2022. That financial support and the measure currently under discussion will assist farmers in providing sufficient fodder for the coming winter and following spring. I remain committed to standing by our farm families during this time of crisis.

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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873. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if low input permanent pastures GLAS participants will be granted a derogation which will allow them collect and bale after mowing or topping their lands after 1 July 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23328/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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There are no plans at present for any derogation in respect of the GLAS specifications. Any such derogation would require the formal approval of the EU Commission. As always the position will continue to be closely monitored by my Department.