Details of a €100 million scheme to help Ireland’s 75,000 beef farmers have been announced by the Government.
The scheme has been set up to help offset the downturn in the beef industry as Brexit approaches.
I very much welcome the launch of this demand-led scheme, which is squarely focused on beef farmers. It is right that the factories will not be benefiting from the scheme.
We are very conscious of the present state of the beef sector, which has dis-improved since this scheme was first announced in May.
We have a big job ahead of us to support our beef farmers and I will be working closely with the Minister of Agriculture Michael Creed and other ministers to make sure that the right supports are in place.
Small dairy farmers are included in the scheme, which involves €50 million from the European Commission, matched by €50 million from the Government.
I am encouraging everyone eligible to put in their applications as soon as possible.