Families’ livelihoods are under threat, with winter forage destroyed and farmyards flooded. Yet, at times of need comes great generosity. Ranging from voluntary assistance to fundraising and emergency easing of regulations, here are the main initiatives available to help affected farmers.

  • Matters regarding Department regulations on the welfare of livestock are being dealt with using force majeure provisions. Flexibilities introduced, which facilitate the removal of water from flooded slurry tanks and the movement of animals for welfare reasons in areas worst affected by the flooding, remain in place.
  • Teagasc and the Department of Agriculture have identified some of the worst affected farmers and provided emergency fodder supplies. Other farmers in distress are invited to contact the Department’s helpline on CallSave 076-106 4408 or 01-607 2379.
  • The IFA has volunteers around the country providing humanitarian help on and off farms. Contact your local IFA branch if you require assistance.
  • Facebook users have created a page to exchange information on needs and offers for assistance.
  • The Irish Red Cross has provided a range of services to communities hit by storms and they continue to help with evacuations, deliveries of supplies, erection of flood barriers, pumping, cleaning up, etc. The organisation has launched an appeal for funds to further help victims. Donations can be made at www.redcross.ie or on 1850 50 70 70 or 01 64 24 600.
  • After they raised €2,200 for the Red Cross through the auction of a vintage tractor donated by Thurles farmer Michael Fahey on 17 December, tractor enthusiasts are scheduling a new solidarity event on 16 and 17 January. This will involve classic and vintage vehicle clubs throughout the country organising their own tractor runs to raise money for the areas flooded by the recent storms. Michael Fahey has called a meeting for 4 January at Littleton Village Hall, Thurles, Co Tipperary, at 7:30pm for all those who would like to help. More information is available online.
  • If your farmyard has been flooded, get some practical advice from our livestock and machinery specialists:
  • What to do with silage in flooding

    Substitutions for silage in flooding

    Operating machinery in flooded conditions

    Read more

    Full coverage: Storm Frank