Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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1306.To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if there is an up-to-date review available concerning the adequacy of fodder stock for the coming winter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.[35984/24]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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I am very aware of the challenges that weather conditions have placed on farmers this year. It was on this basis that I reconvened the National Fodder and Food Security Committee (NFFSC). The meeting of the NFFSC on 8th July heard from Teagasc specialists that grass growth has been below normal which is resulting in fodder stocks being behind target on some farms.

In response these findings, I asked Teagasc to highlight the advisory support services available to farmers to ensure they have the necessary information and advice to maximise fodder production over the autumn period.

It is also very important that farmers also have a source of supply of straw for the winter ahead. With straw stocks depleted from last winter, and to ensure a supply of straw for feeding and bedding, I introduced the Baling Assistance Payment to encourage tillage farmers to bale straw from crops under the SIM, instead of chopping and incorporating them.

Teagasc specialists are currently compiling the results of their most recent fodder survey to add to the results from the fodder survey carried out in June. This survey, as in previous years, will give an indication of overall fodder supply for the coming winter on both a regional and national basis. A meeting of the NFFSC will discuss the results of this survey.

I will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with all stakeholders to avoid a fodder shortage for the winter ahead.