Budget lobbying

IFA representatives will meet TDs and senators from each constituency next week in Dublin to discuss the IFA’s budget proposals. The IFA has recently made the case for strong support for farming to Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe and Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed. Read our budget proposals at www.ifa.ie.

Walks scheme

IFA national hill farming chair Pat Dunne has called on Minister for Rural & Community Development Michael Ring to honour the Government commitment to provide an additional €2m to the walks scheme and bring in a further 40 walks throughout the country. He said additional funding would add greatly to the provision of extra walks and enhance the rural economy in those areas.

Farm security

The IFA has launched a campaign to increase security on farms this autumn. In conjunction with An Garda Síochána, the IFA has developed crime prevention tips to help and encourage farm families to be vigilant and to take steps to ensure they keep their farm and home secure. Check out the advice on www.ifa.ie.

Oireachtas committee

The IFA will address the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture next week on the ongoing nitrates review. IFA environment chair Thomas Cooney will respond to the recently published recommendations of the Expert Group on Nitrates, which he has warned have the potential to add costs for farmers that will affect the competitiveness of the sector.