Wet spring adds to woes of farmers already under cash-flow pressure

SOME of the wettest spring weather on record is adding to the woes of farmers already under pressure with cash flow problems.

Difficult ground conditions are being reported from various parts of the country following heavy rain. These are adding significant production costs to farmers and increasing workloads as the wet weather continues.

Last month was the wettest in more than 40 years in some parts of the country, stunting growth and making access to fields by farm machinery difficult.

IFA president Padraig Walshe said many farmers who already have cash-flow problems are finding the situation exacerbated. They are being forced into buying additional feed as a result of poor ground conditions and low grass growth.

“Livestock farmers in this position should take a serious look at the benefits of the plentiful supply of native-grown barley in store as it represents excellent value for money relative to other options.”

Mr Walshe said merchants, co-ops and banks must be mindful of the difficult conditions that exist and facilitate farmers in ensuring that adequate cash flow is available to get through this difficult period.

The IFA leader noted there had been an increase of 7% in applications for Farm Assist since the beginning of the year. This increase reflects the severe income difficulties farmers face because of falling prices, poor weather, the budget cuts and delays in some direct payments such as REPS 4.

“Farm Assist is providing vital income support to the growing numbers of farmers who are under financial pressure at this time. I would advise any farmer experiencing cash flow problems to enquire about their eligibility, as Farm Assist can be very helpful in supporting household expenditure when incomes are at a low level,” he said.

IFA Rural Development Committee chairman Tom Turley reminded farmers they can avail of the IFA online calculator service on www.ifarm.ie or contact their local Social Welfare office for information on the Farm 1 form that must be completed. This form can also be downloaded from www.welfare.ie.