Deputy Charlie McConalogue, Fianna Fáil TD, queried the logic behind Bruton’s refusal to carry out an analysis to assess the effects that these changes have had on families.

The Farm Assist budget fell to just under €89m earlier this year. The scheme, similar to jobseeker’s allowance, provides support for farmers on low incomes.

However, Bruton’s response was that there is no need to change the current scheme criteria as it is being kept under ongoing review. According to the Tánaiste, the current assessment system reflects the needs of farmers.

“The assessment of means for the purpose of qualifying for Farm Assist is designed to reflect the actual net income from farming,” said Minister Bruton. “Income and expenditure figures for the preceding year are generally used as an indicator of the expected position in the following year.

“Account is taken of any exceptional circumstances so as to ensure that the assessment accurately reflects the current situation,” she added. “Any farmer experiencing lower levels of income can ask for a review of their means.”