Minister seeks Dáil approval for additional support for farmers – Brady

The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Brendan Smith TD will seek approval to allow the Department spend funds in support of farmers according to Chair of the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee and Fianna Fáil TD for Meath West, Johnny Brady.

“The Minister will seek approval in the Dáil to approve a Supplementary Estimate for his Department to allow savings arising in the Department to be spent in the best interests of farmers. The Minister for Finance, Brian Lenihan has supported Minister Smith in this move.”

“While there are no additional Exchequer funds available to Minister Smith, he is determined to use the savings that have arisen in the Department to assist farmers.”

“The savings, along with EU receipts will be used to increase the existing allocations mainly for the Farm Waster Management Scheme and the Rural Environmental Protection Scheme (REPS).”

“An additional €39 million will be allocated to REPS, if this measure is agreed in the Dáil allowing for payment in December. It would also enable the Minister to commence the payment of the second instalment of the Farm Waste Management Scheme grants in December rather than early 2010 as was expected.”

“I know that these early payments will be welcomed by local farmers. This has been a tough year for many farmers and cash flow as been especially difficult. I am confident that these payments will be of real assistance.”

“I am hopeful the other members of the Dáil will back Minister Smith in his bid to support farmers with these practical measures,” concluded Deputy Brady.