ICMSA criticises suckler proposal

A CALL by the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association to have the proposed additional suckler herd supports paid on an area rather than on a cow basis has been criticised by the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers’ Association.

ICSA is seeking a per hectare payment of up to €100 to a maximum of 50 hectares. The payment would be for farmers whose objectives are the highest standards in animal welfare and quality breeding.

Suckler committee chairman Frank Kehoe said the ICSA wanted to put money in suckler farmers’ pockets but without going back to bureaucracy and six-month retentions.