15 JANUARY 2018

ICSA Sligo chairman Gabriel Gilmartin has said he is extremely disappointed at the lack of a conclusive announcement relating to a transport subsidy for fodder at today’s Fodder Action Group meeting in Sligo. Speaking following the meeting Mr Gilmartin said, “Despite recent soundings to the contrary, regrettably no announcement on a transport subsidy was forthcoming today.”

Mr Gilmartin said he was equally disappointed that no concession on the provision of meal vouchers was forthcoming either, “ICSA is seeking meal vouchers as they are a critical component in alleviating the crisis. ICSA is arguing that meal vouchers can offer a better value solution than transporting fodder across the country at huge cost. These would have to be in the order of €40 per tonne and must be central to any solution.”

Mr Gilmartin said there was further concern with indications from Department officials present at the meeting that the transport of straw wouldn’t be subsidised in any event. “This declaration has compounded the difficulties, however, ICSA will continue to press for transport subsidies for straw as well as hay and silage as a matter of urgency.”

ENDS