The European Commission is encouraging member states to make use of flexibilities they’re offering to support farmers during the European drought situation.

"I am very concerned about these prolonged climatic developments. I have been in contact with a number of ministers from affected countries to discuss the situation and get up-to-date assessments of its impact,” European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Phil Hogan said.

“The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) already provides a safety net for farmers who have to deal with unpredictable events.

“I am encouraging all member states to look into all possible actions and measures provided for in our legislation."

Relaxing the rules

Ireland has already secured higher advance payments to help with the drought and the associated costs, but the Department of Agriculture could now avail of a number of flexibilities around GLAS and other schemes.

Specific derogations could be granted that could allow for designated land lying fallow to be used to produce animal feed.

Considerations might also be made to allow derogations to greening, to allow silage to be cut on land such as low-input permanent pasture.

The Commission highlighted that under current agricultural state aid rules, that aid covering up to 80% of damage caused by drought or 90% in areas of natural constraint can be provided.

Buying fodder can qualify for aid under these conditions, as either material or income damage.

De minimus aid is also available, which provides for grant aid up to €15,000 to be granted by a member state to a farmer, without the need to notify the Commission.

Minister Creed

The Irish Farmers Journal understands that Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed and Commissioner Hogan have been in touch and farm organisations have urged the minister to act before it is too late.

Read more

10m silage bale shortfall

Weather hit to all farm incomes

Farmers urged to take care of their mental health