Michael Creed T.D., Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine today announced the launch of a targeted measure to provide assistance to farmers in North East Donegal who suffered losses as a result of the brief but severe flooding experienced in the area last month. 

The Minister outlined, ‘I witnessed first-hand some of the very significant problems that a number of farmers experienced as a result of the sudden flooding event, when I visited North East Donegal with my colleague Minster Joe McHugh.  I committed during my visit to supporting these farmers and I am satisfied that my Department in conjunction with other State Agencies have moved swiftly to offer practical solutions to those affected”.  

Speaking at the launch of the measure the Minister said “Following positive discussions at Cabinet this morning, I am pleased to announce this initiative to support the small number of farmers around the Inishowen Peninsula who bore the brunt of last month’s unprecedented rainfall. This measure will provide farmers who were significantly affected by the flooding with a financial contribution towards losses or damage sustained.”

Support under this measure will apply to losses of livestock, the loss of conserved fodder (Hay or Silage) and as a contribution towards the clean-up cost of agricultural lands, including repair to fences, damaged by debris washed up by the floods. Only losses not covered by insurance will be eligible for consideration.

The measure builds on the availability of support through the Animal Welfare Helpline and through the advisory assistance made available by Teagasc in the region.

The Minister concluded ‘While it is not possible to address all  of the problems the floods caused on farms, the measures I have announced today will specifically direct support to those that have borne the brunt of the flooding . I would particularly like to pay tribute to the tremendous community spirit of the people in Donegal in supporting those affected by the flooding’.

Application forms will be available shortly with an early closing date proposed to allow prompt processing of requests for support.

Notes for editor

The detailed provisions of the measure, including eligibility criteria will be set out in the application form which will be available on the Department’s website shortly

In the case of livestock losses including cattle, sheep or pigs; these must have been formally notified to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Regional Veterinary Office, Raphoe. Eligible fodder losses are those lost during the floods and are limited solely to conserved hay or silage.

Agricultural land damaged by the deposition of debris or other river spoil will be eligible for a contribution towards the clear up costs for debris or other deposition so that the land can be returned to productive use. Support will also be available for the repair of fencing damaged by floodwaters.

Minister of State at the Department of Culture with responsibility for Gaeilge, Gaeltacht and the Islands Joe McHugh TD & Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Michael Creed TD meet farmer Wayne Armstrong in Whitecastle, Inishowen.

ENDS

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Date Released: 06 September 2017