22nd December, 2015

ICSA president Patrick Kent has called on the Government to put together a compensation package to assist farmers who have suffered the greatest losses during the recent flooding.

Mr Kent was speaking in response to the recent establishment of a flood support fund by the UK Government whereby affected farmers will be able to claim up to £20,000.

“Flooding can have disastrous consequences for farmers and both practical and financial support should be forthcoming from the Government,” he said.

Mr Kent reiterated his call for proper management and maintenance of the Shannon and he questioned whether Ireland should leave the management of Shannon water levels to the ESB. “A review of the capacity and management of water levels at the Ardnacrusha Power Plant is now necessary. It seems that a national coordination agency will be required to achieve the required results in terms of the entire River Shannon.”

ENDS