Callows farmers will get fodder grants
A FODDER support scheme for hundreds of Shannon Callows farmers who go no hay or silage this summer has been welcomed by local public representatives and landowners.
The scheme was officially confirmed on Tuesday by Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue, and will have a payment compensation rate of €325 per hectare (just over €130 per acre).
The Minister said that the support package was being put in place due to the exceptional flooding in the Shannon Callows area during the late summer and would help farmers to buy in fodder for the winter period.
He outlined a funding package of €800,000 for the scheme with the Department undertaking to contact affected farmers. The €325/ha payment will be for a minimum of one hectare and a maximum of 15.
East Galway Minister of State, Anne Rabbitte, said that the announcement was very welcome news for the Callows’ farmers and their families.
“This fodder support scheme for farmers impacted by flooding on the Shannon Callows will ease the pressure on people and demonstrates that the Government is listening and wants to support farm families.
Pictured: Minister of State, Anne Rabbitte