Budget lobbying

IFA representatives will meet TDs and senators from around the country next week to discuss agriculture priorities for Budget 2017. The IFA is lobbying for full funding for the implementation of farm schemes, the enhancement and extension of agri-tax measures, and the equalisation of self-assessed and PAYE tax credits. Find out more at www.ifa.ie.

Cashflow support

IFA dairy chair Sean O’Leary has said that while milk price increases will be welcomed by financially stressed farmers, they will not suffice to address their cashflow difficulties.

The IFA has been engaging with Minister Michael Creed and his officials on the need to match the €11.1m EU aid, and to find constructive ways to utilise it to help support cashflow in all sectors.

Security check-up

The IFA has developed a new checklist to help farmers to assess and improve their farm and home security. The checklist poses questions on a number of aspects of farm security, and offers tips and advice to help improve security on the farm. Check it out at www.ifa.ie/security-check-up.

Fallen animal collection

The Department of Agriculture has a responsibility to ensure that an adequate fallen animal collection infrastructure is provided throughout the country, IFA animal health chair Bert Stewart has said.

The licensing process must compel knackeries to provide a full collection service in their identified area to all farmers for all types of stock.

Hill farming

IFA hill chair Pat Dunne has said that following representation by the IFA, the flexibilities in the criteria for the new €10/ewe sheep scheme to recognise practical issues for hill sheep farming in commonages, are important and he urged all farmers to investigate the detail of the scheme – available at www.ifa.ie