Food security cttee to be reconvened amid fodder concerns

The National Fodder and Food Security Committee will reconvene due to ongoing fodder supply concerns caused by recent dry weather, according to Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon. This decision follows a meeting with farmers groups in Celbridge, Co Kildare, where the government pledged to consider additional supports for fodder supplies as part of the upcoming budget.

The meeting was held in response to widespread drought conditions across the country, particularly affecting counties like Carlow, Laois, and Kilkenny. Heydon acknowledged the stressful situation faced by farmers and emphasized that extra supports will be considered. He encouraged farmers to discuss cash flow concerns with their financial institutions.

The government stated its commitment to supporting the farming sector during a challenging year, with the committee's recommendations to be evaluated in the context of the 2027 budget and the range of flexibilities requested by farm organizations.