Pig farmers may be able to breathe a sigh of relief as talks are expected to be tabled regarding a support package to be offered to embattled farmers. This as Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue is set to discuss a support package of €7 million with Cabinet. It’s understood that this may see individual pig farmers settling for a support package of €20,000 per farmer. The funds will be paid out to all finisher pig farmers who are members of the Bord Bia Quality Assurance Scheme.
Talks on the matter have come forth as farmers raised concerns about the industry and highlighted the disastrous state of the pig farming sector due to intense financial losses. Costs for pig farmers have increased in recent months, while there has additionally been a decline in the market, with some saying that it may force pig farmers out of the sector altogether.
According to McConalogue, pig farmers have always been remarkably resilient, and he says that he is acutely aware of the challenges they are facing at present. He reiterated that he will emphasize that concerted EU action is needed and is the best course of action.
There have been recent reports that pig farmers may suffer losses of up to €128 million. While talks have been welcomed by lobby groups and farmers, successful talks will alleviate the current dire situation.
LSL News.