The Department of Agriculture has updated an extensive listing of frequently asked questions and answers published on its website, www.agriculture.gov.ie/customerservice/coronaviruscovid-19. Within these is a question relating to the continuation of construction projects.

It states: “In the construction sector, the following activities have been deemed essential: essential health and related projects relevant to the COVID-19 crisis, and supplies necessary for such projects; repair/construction of critical road and utility infrastructure; delivery of emergency services to businesses and homes on an emergency callout basis in areas such as electrical, plumbing, glazing and roofing.”

Examples of works that could be considered critical would be finishing the upgrading of pig housing or poultry housing and work on silage pits or calf housing

Farm-related construction is not listed among the activities deemed essential, but the Department position is that it considers that limited projects that are essential for animal welfare should continue. “Examples of works that could be considered critical would be finishing the upgrading of pig housing or poultry housing (these will be needed to house animals in the near term) and work on silage pits (storage of fodder) or calf housing (needed now).”

The Department says it cannot adjudicate on individual cases and is tasking farmers and companies to assess if the building project is deemed as an essential service.

“It is a matter for each company/individual to objectively and fairly assess whether they are involved in providing essential services. If any farm-related construction project proceeds, then all HSE guidelines must be followed and adequate hygiene facilities provided. The minimum number of people necessary should only be involved.”

Green light for calf feeders, no update on TAMS

Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed announced on Tuesday morning that approvals will issue this week to all 2,500 applicants under the Calf Investment Scheme announced earlier this year. This was facilitated through an increase in the scheme’s budget from the original sum of €1.5m to €4m.

It is a matter for each company/individual to objectively and fairly assess whether they are involved in providing essential services

The Irish Farmers Journal has received a high number of queries regarding the likelihood of Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS II) applications being extended in light of COVID-19 and the advice released to refrain from any works that are not deemed as essential services for animal welfare.

The Irish Farmers Journal has sent questions to the Department on this matter and also asked if applications will continue to be processed in the current tranche, which closes for applications on 24 April. The Department was still assessing options at time of going to print and any update will be published on www.farmersjournal.ie in the coming days.