The current situation facing Ireland’s farmers has sparked various debates and has led to various programmes being considered in dire attempts to alleviate their financial position. However, the latest development regarding this took place in the Dáil earlier this week as a specific proposed mini-budget raised by the Rural Independent Group (RIG) was not taken particularly well.
In an attempt to seek a solution to the matter the RIG raised the demand of a €75 million package for farmers, reversing a planned increase in carbon tax and cutting excise duty on motor fuel by at least 50%, until the energy crisis abates.
According to group deputy, Michael Collins, the current package announced by the government is grossly insufficient. He says the current situation has the potential to wipe out viable farms. In addition to this it was heard that agri-contractors cannot survive, given the level of tax being imposed on them.
But Minister for Agriculture Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue indicated that government had already brought forward a series of measures to soften the blow, including a €7 million support scheme for pig farmers.
He added that they are acutely aware of the challengers facing farmers this year, while the government is seeking a means to offset the increases. Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe described the mini-budget proposals from the Rural Independent Group as disrespectful.
LSL News.