Fine Gael plan to support Clare farmers

FINE Gael has unveiled a comprehensive plan to back farmers focusing on fair funding, reduced red tape, and ensuring the sustainability of rural communities, Clare Fine Gael General Election candidate Leonora Carey has said.

“Farmers are the backbone of the Clare economy  and Fine Gael is committed to ensuring they have the support they need to thrive. We’ll fight for a bigger share of the EU budget to increase the CAP fund, delivering more money to farms while simplifying schemes to cut through the bureaucracy that frustrates so many,” she explained. 

“For beef and sheep farmers, we’ll introduce strong, straightforward payments of €300 per suckler cow and €30 per ewe, ensuring their farms stay viable. 

“For dairy-beef systems, we’ll support farmers with €100 per calf, and for tillage farmers, we’re committing €60 million annually to provide certainty and stability in this crucial sector. 

“Fine Gael will produce a comprehensive farm succession plan in the first 100 days of Government, ensuring older farmers can retire with dignity and younger farmers are supported to take over. 

“The nitrates derogation is essential for Irish agriculture, and Fine Gael will fight to protect it. We’ll set up a dedicated Cabinet Committee on Water Quality to drive improvements across all sectors. 

“To keep the food supply chain fair, we’ll strengthen the powers of the independent Agri-Food Regulator to improve transparency and pricing. Farmers need confidence that their hard work is valued, and Fine Gael will ensure they get a fair deal.

“To help farms deal with unpredictable markets, Fine Gael will advance the introduction of a farm income volatility scheme, giving farmers a safety net when prices fluctuate. 

“We’ll continue to support our food producers as custodians of the land and sea, ensuring Clare remains at the heart of Ireland’s agricultural and fishing success. 

“Fine Gael is, and always has been, the party of rural Ireland. With this plan, we’ll deliver for farmers, fishers, and their families, ensuring they can continue to play their essential role in our communities,” Ms Carey,” concluded.

PHOTO: Leonora Carey canvassing at Sixmilebridge Mart with Junior Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon.