O'Neill Updates Assembly On Weather Response

Agriculture Minister Michelle O'Neill has updated the Assembly on her Department’s response to the severe weather over the weekend of 22 and 24 March.

The Minister said: "As of 4pm yesterday, carcases had been collected from 440 farms. A total of 8,153 sheep had been collected of which 6,246 were lambs. Additionally 240 cattle were collected.

"The vast majority of calls received from farmers to date, including a number from around the Sperrins and other affected areas in the west, have been confirmed into the scheme on the basis of the information provided. In fact 140 applications have been approved to date and only 10 have not been accepted."

The Minister said she had extended the collection period until Friday 19 April, due to the slow thaw on certain parts of higher ground.

She continued: "The hardship scheme will be specifically for livestock losses and linked to the collection and disposal scheme. It will be framed in light of the information gathered on the extent and nature of losses which we will build as farmers have stock removed and disposed of by the approved renderers. The details of the scheme and how to apply will be made public as soon as possible."

Minister O'Neill also said her Department would "be flexible" regarding those making a claim under the Less Favoured Area Compensatory Allowance scheme.

She said: "Every year around 14,000 farmers apply for payment from the LFACA scheme, of which over 98% are ultimately deemed eligible and qualify for payment. I recognise the important contribution which the scheme makes to the industry and to those farming in more disadvantaged areas in particular."

Minister O'Neill concluded: "In the last two weeks I have visited farms in the Glens of Antrim, South Down and the Sperrins and have witnessed first-hand the problems faced by farmers. I would like to acknowledge the true community spirit demonstrated in these areas, as farmers and the wider Agri-Food Industry worked together to procure and deliver much needed fodder to affected farms. I commend the work of local farmers and volunteers who have battled the worst of the elements to assist their neighbours."

(IT/CD)