Sinn Féin spokesperson on Agriculture, Claire Kerrane TD, has called on Minister McConalogue to bring forward a solution for the group known as ‘Forgotten Farmers’ without delay.

Teachta Kerrane raised the issue with the Minister before the Dáil went into recess. In his reply, the Minister referred again to exploration of the funding required, but no further update was provided

Speaking today, Teachta Kerrane said:

“I have repeatedly urged Minister McConalogue to set out the details of his Department’s proposed scheme for the group known as ‘Forgotten Farmers’.

“Details of a proposed scheme were supposed to be announced in the first quarter of 2023, but there is still no sign of a solution being brought forward.

“I questioned the Minister on the matter again and he advised, again, that his Department has prepared a preliminary outline of a scheme, but that work continues on addressing issues around funding and public expenditure.

“The Minister stated that he has long supported these Farmers and is committed to supporting them – but they have yet to receive any support from this Government.

“The intended timeline of details of a scheme being unveiled is now almost a year late, which I find to be incredible.

“As I have said before, these delays can only be a further source of frustration for these Farmers, who have already waited far too long for a solution.

“At the very least the Minister should bring forward details of the proposed scheme for Forgotten Farmers this month when the Dáil reconvenes, and to provide a concrete timeline for implementation of a solution for these Farmers.”

E