David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1716.To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his reasons for seeking a deferral of the straw incorporation measure for 2024; the impact this will have on tillage farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33457/24]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The difficult weather in early 2024 has resulted in extremely low fodder supplies in the country, including straw. As a consequence of this I recently proposed a deferral of the 2024 Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM) and indicated that I would engage with the Farmers' Charter on the matter. I made this proposal balancing the need to ensure adequate supplies of straw are available for the coming winter with the environmental and soil health benefits of the scheme.

I am anticipating that demand for straw will be strong this year due to the current shortage. This demand will ensure tillage farmers should have a ready market for their output. I again urge all farmers to ensure they have secured supplies of straw and fodder for the winter ahead and to engage promptly with tillage farmers on this matter.

I am at present engaging with farm bodies and with the European Commission on this matter, and will make a final decision shortly.