Aid for Offaly farmers affected by Shannon flooding

GOVERNMENT approval of payments to farmers located in the Shannon Callows in west Offaly, who have lost fodder as a result of exceptional flooding, has been welcomed by Minister Pippa Hackett.

Speaking following Cabinet approval, the Offaly based Minister said “I am delighted that my colleagues in the Department of Agriculture recognise that 2023 has seen an abnormal pattern of flooding on farmed land in the Shannon Callows, especially in the late Summer months. This flooding prevented harvesting, and over 200 farmers and approximately 2,500 hectares have been identified by the Department as being negatively affected.”

“A targeted scheme will accept applications from these farmers for funding to assist them over the winter months. Based on average yields per hectare a payment of €325 per hectare will be available to farmers affected by fodder loss in the Callows. A minimum amount of €325 and a maximum amount of €4875 will be paid to farmers. The estimated total scheme cost is €812,000.”

“As a farmer, and having spoken with farmers on the Callows, I can fully appreciate that without this scheme farm incomes in the areas affected would be reduced, having very real and negative outcomes for individuals and families but also for the local economy.”