Minister announces suckler scheme

A new €235 million suckler welfare scheme was announced yesterday by Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Minister Mary Coughlan, after it was approved by the European Commission.

Participation is voluntary and will be open to all suckler farmers, including those with mixed enterprise herds containing both suckler and dairy animals.

Ms Coughlan said in developing the scheme she was delivering on a key element of the Agri-Vision 2015 Action Plan which identified the beef sector as a vital area for development.

A payment of €80 per cow up to a limit of 100 cows would be available to suckler cow farmers who undertake to comply with six animal welfare measures in relation to calves born from January 1, 2008 onwards.

The scheme would operate for five years. Her department will shortly write to all potentially eligible farmers with details. A dedicated Lo-call helpline number, 1890 252 707, will operate in her department from October 30.

IFA Livestock Committee chairman John Bryan said the unique scheme, the first of its type in the EU and a major boost to the sector, was first proposed by the IFA.

Martin McMahon, chairperson, ICMSA Beef and Cattle Committee, also welcomed the scheme but said a number of small amendments to the detailed rules would make it more attractive to farmers.