Irish Farmer’s Association (IFA) president, Francie Gorman said the delivery of the Tillage Survival Scheme put forward by the IFA is a litmus test for Taoiseach Simon Harris.
The Laois man has called on the new Taoiseach to back up his words by action.
“Tillage farmers have faced a perfect storm since summer 2023, with falling grain prices; input costs remaining high; loss of rented land; and near incessant rainfall in the period since,” Mr Gorman said.
“The new Taoiseach has pledged to support the sector, but we need to see his words backed by action.
“There is no question that our tillage sector is fighting for its very future.
“The Government says it wants to have more tillage production and this will only happen if they step up and support growers.”
Mr Gorman said he would be seeking a meeting with the Taoiseach and the tillage sector would be one of the priorities.
The IFA has presented its Tillage Survival Scheme to the Department of Agriculture.
IFA National Grain Chairman, Kieran McEvoy, who is from Emo, also called for action.
He said: “in light of the difficulties being experienced in the tillage sector, IFA has proposed a €250 per hectare, five-year payment for tillage farmers.
“It is essential this funding is secured in 2024 to prevent a decimation of the national tillage area.”
