Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

68. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to a possible fodder shortage this coming winter; if he is considering introducing a fodder production incentive scheme to encourage and support farmers to sow forage crops on their land to offset possible fodder shortages over the coming winter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36777/24]

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

2024 has been a challenging year for farmers, with weather having a major impact on many farms throughout the country. A very late and wet spring posed challenges for both livestock and tillage farmers. Recent Met Éireann data has shown the Northwest of the country has had above average rainfall this summer, and when combined with the relatively cool temperatures it has had an impact on grass growth. Other parts of the country have had rainfall levels well below average and this has also led to reduced growth rates.

To ensure that fodder levels are constantly monitored in March 2022 I established the National Fodder and Food Security Committee. The remit of the Committee is to prepare an industry response, contingency plans and advice to assist farmers in managing their farm enterprises through difficult periods.

Teagasc have recently updated the national fodder survey across dairy and drystock farms nationwide. The results, while still showing that certain farmers are currently in deficit, does show an improved position when compared to June. Nationally 62% of farmers have fully secured their winter feed (including one month reserve). A further 20% show minor deficits of less than 10% of winter feed requirements.

I would echo the advice Teagasc have given to their clients. Where farmers have not completed a fodder budget it is imperative that they do so now to allow them to best manage the situation on their own farm. Where a deficit exists, the earlier it is identified the more options are available to deal with the shortfall.

At present there are no plans to introduce a fodder production incentive scheme. The recent spell of good weather has allowed farmers to complete the cereal harvest in many parts of the country. Straw yields are good and the support of the Baling Assistance Payment (BAP) has supported farmers that were in the Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM) to bale straw and make it available to livestock farmers.

As always fodder supply will be kept under constant review and as I have shown in the past with schemes like the Fodder Transport Support Measure from March 2024 and the Fodder Support Schemes of 2022 and 2023, where the need arises I will look to put in place the appropriate support mechanisms for farmers.