Delay in Processing of Applications for Revised Sow Welfare Scheme Must Be Avoided

IFA Pigs and Pigmeat Chairman Tim Cullinan has welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney to re-open the revised Sow Welfare Scheme.

“The decision to increase the investment ceiling is important in the context of the commitments that farmers will have to make to comply with the new regulations.”

However, Tim Cullinan said the Department must treat the application process beginning next week with the utmost urgency given the tight timeframe to complete the work.

“Already, some farmers have applications in train. Given the delays in putting a revised Scheme in place, it is paramount that those re-applying are dealt with as quickly as possible.”

Tim Cullinan said the banks have an important role to play in providing funding that will be needed as part of the investment.  He also reminded processors and retailers of the need to pay a viable price to producers to ensure a regular supply of Irish pigmeat