While construction projects have by and large ground to a halt, there is a cohort of farmers anxious to complete work on silage pits in time for first cuts.

On many farms, first cuts are slated for the second week of May, so there is a little over a month for those in critical need of silage storage space to complete works.

In guidance issued by the Department of Agriculture at the beginning of April, construction related to animal welfare, such as fodder storage, was considered essential.

However, the Department has stated it is unable to adjudicate on individual cases and that it is a matter for the individual or company to assess whether they are providing an essential service.

Limbo

This has left some farmers in limbo, as contractors require a letter stating the silage pit is essential before work can be carried out.

Difficulties in securing letters have been reported by farmers in a number of counties including Cork, Monaghan and Wexford.

One Kildare farmer contacted the Irish Farmers Journal to say he was trying to complete a silage pit ahead of his first cut. Having approached Teagasc initially for a letter, the farmer was able to secure one from his local Garda sergeant.

The Irish Farmers Journal understands that Teagasc advisers have been instructed not to issue letters.

Concrete

Obtaining the necessary concrete for pits has also been an issue. Many local suppliers have temporarily closed, with larger companies, such as Roadstone and Kilsaran, limiting their operations to essential projects only.

The Irish Concrete Federation (ICF) has requested clarity from the Department of Agriculture as to whether farm construction is deemed essential or non-essential. Currently, it is being left to suppliers and farmers to decide on an individual case-by-case basis.

A spokesperson for the ICF said this approach was “inappropriate and arbitrary” and that further clarity from Government was urgently required.

There are some concrete companies supplying farm projects, but the majority are not operating.