ANC meetings

The IFA’s series of meetings on the ANC review are continuing around the country with upcoming meetings in Bantry, Co Cork, on 20 March, Ennis, Co Clare, on 23 March and Cahir, Co Tipperary, on 3 April. You can find full details at www.ifa.ie or in the local press. IFA representatives have been meeting with TDs and senators in their counties to impress upon them the need to protect ANC areas and increase funding for this scheme.

Flooding

IFA flood chair Padraic Joyce has expressed serious concern about the lack of progress in dealing with flooding problems along the River Shannon following recent heavy rainfall. He said it is over 12 months since the last period of prolonged flooding and farmers are disappointed at the lack of progress on works promised. Minister Sean Canney must take urgent action and agencies such as ESB and Waterways Ireland must play their part in controlling water levels.

Tractor NCT

The IFA will oppose excessive tractor regulations being imposed on farmers who ignore existing obligations or add extra bureaucracy, according to environment chair Thomas Cooney. He said all farmers support improving safety but it is important when addressing this issue that existing measures are not duplicated. The IFA will be engaging with the Department of Transport and the RSA on this issue. Keep updated at www.ifa.ie.

Poultry support

IFA poultry chair Nigel Renaghan has called on the retail sector to support free-range producers during this difficult period while birds must be housed. He said retailers must give a firm commitment that no reduction in price will be sought for poultry products from free-range farms, pointing out that free-range production comes with increased costs that are in no way removed from the production system due to the current temporary housing restriction.