THE new ‘Fodder Transport Support Measure’, introduced to assist farmers severely affected by prolonged weather conditions, is available to horse owners.

The support recognises that in many cases horse owners are now running out of fodder due to very poor ground conditions delaying the turn-out to grass. It includes a financial contribution to offset transport costs of hay, fodder beet, straw and silage for feeding, where this involves a distance of more than 75km.

Irish Horse Board director general Alison Corbally said: “After consultation with the Department of Agriculture Food and Marine on behalf of our members and the equestrian community, the Irish Horse Board are happy to announce that all equine owners who have the mandatory equine premises/herd number, can avail of this scheme, which will help greatly towards the cost of transporting hay, haylage and straw during this difficult period.”

Launching the measure this week, Minister for Agriculture Food & Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD acknowledged that a key issue to resolve was the cost of transporting fodder between those areas where it was plentiful and those where it was scarce.

“Teagasc analysis has shown that fodder remains available across the country, but I am conscious of the significant additional cost to farmers where fodder has to be transported over significant distance to areas where it is most needed,” he said.

“As fodder is traded between farms on a regular basis, it is essential that the support measure being announced today is targeted at those who most need it and does not impact on the normal functioning of the market for fodder. I am grateful that the co-op structure is supporting the practical implementation of this measure.”

FAQs

Who is eligible to apply for the Fodder Transport Support Measure?

Farmers, including equine farmers, who are experiencing a significant forage shortage on their holding.

What are the cut-off dates for the scheme?

Forage purchased prior to March 31st (inclusive) is ineligible for the scheme.

Where will I source the additional Forage?

Co-ops throughout the country will be facilitating the Fodder Transport Support Measure.

When and where will application forms be available?

Application forms will be available on the Departments website shortly.

What paperwork is involved?

The following documentation needs to be submitted in order to make a valid application:

1. A completed application form signed by the farmer.

2. A completed Co-op declaration form signed by the co-op.

What is the financial transport contribution available under the measure?

Forage Material Bale Size Transport Support per Bale/Tonne €

Hay/Straw for feeding 4 x 4 20

Haylage/silage 4 x 4 30

Hay/Straw for feeding 8 X 4 X 4 35

Hay/Straw for feeding 8 X 4 X 3 30

Haylage/silage 8 X 4 X 3 40

Hay/Straw for feeding 6 X 3 X 2 8

Pit Silage Per Tonne 40

Fodder Beet Per Tonne 40