Fodder gap closes but shortages still loom

THE estimated fodder shortage on Irish farms for the coming Winter has been reduced from 28% earlier this Summer to 11% as of last week, according to the latest figures from the Dept. of Agriculture.

Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed, said that the latest figure was based on the most recent Teagasc national survey on the fodder situation – the first one had been carried out in early July.

Minister Creed said that while the situation was improving as regards making up the deficit, ‘a significant deficit’ still remained on many farms with the coming weeks still very important in terms of further closing the fodder deficit gap.

“It is clear from the information circulated today that significant progress is being made, not least due to the efforts of the stakeholders in the group.

“As I have said previously, there is no single solution, but maximising national fodder production this autumn is a critical component of filling the remaining deficit, which may be still significant for many livestock farmers.

“I urge these farmers to continue to engage with their farm advisor on how best to manage their particular situation,” said Minister Creed.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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