Donkeys eligible in DAS rules

A Co Kerry TD has warned that farmers will discard donkeys, and sanctuaries will be at full capacity, if the animals are not made eligible for inclusion in the stocking density calculation for farmers to qualify for disadvantaged area payments in 2015.

Speaking in the Dáil, Tom Fleming, Independent TD for Kerry South, asked Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney what provision he made for donkeys in eligible for inclusion in the stocking density calculation for 2015.

Mr Coveney said donkeys will continue to be eligible for inclusion in stocking density calculations where animals are appropriately registered in the name of the Areas of Natural Constraints Scheme 2015 applicant, and maintained on his or her holding.