Lack of fodder not serious, says Smith

A SERIOUS livestock fodder shortage is not anticipated by Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith, who told the Dáil last week that much of the deficit was made good during the prolonged fine spell in September and October.

Up to then, fodder supplies were reduced by heavy spring and summer rainfall, and at least one-third of the farmers responding to a Teagasc survey said they had inadequate fodder to meet their needs.

Mr Smith said while supplies were still tight on some farms after October, a serious shortage should not arise.