Retail regulation

IFA president Joe Healy and horticulture chair Paul Brophy recently met with Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation Heather Humphreys.

They discussed the enforcement of the Grocery Goods Regulations by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and also stressed the need for the appointment of an Independent Retail Regulator. The issue of labour shortages in the farming and food sector was also discussed.

Organic Farming Scheme

The Organic Farming Scheme has re-opened for applications until 19 December.

Ireland has a deficit in horticulture, cereals and dairy and the Department will give priority to those areas so farmers who are interested should make their application. The Organic Farming Scheme is a measure under the RDP. Farmers sign up to a contract for five years, with standard payments of up to €220/ha during the conversion period and up to €170/ha when they have achieved full organic status.

George Mason tribute

IFA president Joe Healy has paid tribute to the vice-chair of the IFA national grain committee, George Mason, who passed away earlier this month. “George was very proud of his farm in Ardfinnan, Co Tipperary. He was a top-class tillage farmer who worked tirelessly in representing his fellow farmers. He was very popular with farmers who respected his views and insights. George Mason served as chair of South Tipperary IFA from 2010 to 2014. To his family, we extend our condolences.”

Veterinary Council of Ireland

IFA animal health chair Pat Farrell has strongly rejected the guidance issued by the Veterinary Council of Ireland for vets providing a service to farmers and the issuing of prescriptions.

The IFA chair said the guidance is a gross interference with the functioning of a competitive service provision to farmers and the IFA’s view is that it is at odds with the clearly set-out legislative criteria in relation to the prescribing of veterinary medicines for animals.

Ifac farmers’ seminars

The final ifac farmers’ seminars, which have been well attended to date, are taking place next week.

The events cover topics including: tax tips for the coming year; financial planning ; CAP reform; farm schemes and preventing rural crime. Next week’s events are taking place on Monday 3 December in The Park Hotel, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, and on Tuesday 4 December in the Horse & Jockey Hotel, Tipperary.