The IFA is calling on Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed to ensure that "not a single cent" of the €100m Brexit beef compensation fund is granted for factory-owned or feedlot cattle.

“Farmers who sold finished cattle through the marts must be eligible and not agents and dealers. The Department of Agriculture has all the data and information on the AIMs system,” IFA national livestock chair Angus Woods said.

Funding

The fund has been jointly funded by the European Commission, and Irish Government.

It has yet to be announced how the money will be divided between farmers, but IFA president Joe Healy has stated that it must be targeted at farmers who need it the most – those who sold finished cattle since last September and suckler producers.

Funding for farmers

Healy said that the IFA has worked hard to deliver the fund and would ensure that it was delivered swiftly to farmers.

“It's for farmers – not for factories, agents or dealers. We will insist it is paid quickly and directly to farmers,” he said.