Changing climate will require ‘greater vigilance’ from farmers

Farmers will need to review stocking rates, cattle types and the amount of fodder that needs to be preserved, says Cork County Councillor Frank O’Flynn.

Looking ahead to the coming winter, farmers will need to project individual estimates for silage, hay, cereals and straw. The changing climate will require greater vigilance, said Cllr O’Flynn, a farmer and a Dairygold milk adviser, as well as a Fianna Fáil representative.

“In recent weeks, I have witnessed this hardship firsthand. I have seen animals suffering due to the fodder crisis, and it is not a sight anyone would want to see,” said Mr O’Flynn. “Animals that are not fed suffer significant pain, and some cattle are not just hungry, they’ve been starving. The number of fallen animals has soared. Knackeries are unable to cope with the increase in numbers.