Farmers urged to contact local Teagasc office for advice on how to deal with flooded yards
Teagasc advisers last week helped farmers with advice and information in Cos Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Limerick, Donegal, and Cork (at Skibbereen).
Farmers sought advice on flooded farm yards and cattle sheds, fodder damaged and destroyed by flooding, moving animals to higher ground, and maintenance diets for animals taken out of flooded sheds.
Tim Hyde, Teagasc environmental specialist said; “Farmers faced with flooded farm yards are facing a particularly difficult time.
“If tanks are flooded, it is permitted to pump out water for animal welfare reasons, using sludge pumps.
“Exporting slurry to other farms is also an option, and is allowed until the end of the December.
“Farmers are also helping their neighbours with fodder, where access to their own supplies is restricted.”
Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney has assured farmers that they will not be subject to any penalties arising from issues caused by flooding of their farms.
“It is not possible to stop all inspections, but where significant flooding is evident on the farm, inspections are deferred,” he said.
“Force majeure provisions provided in the EU Regulations will be applied by Department inspectors, and sensitivity shown where flood damage is found, for example, fencing missing”.
The Minister urged farmers seeking assistance to contact their local Teagasc advisers or his Department’s Animal Welfare helpline, which is monitored around the clock, to help farmers who report a risk of animal welfare such as stranded animals or shortage of fodder.
The Minister said, “I have asked Teagasc to provide dedicated on-farm advice to farmers in flooded areas”.
Teagasc have also set up a helpline (0761 11355)) for farmers affected by the flooding.
The Minister re-affirmed fexibilities available to farmers in flooded areas, including the concession to remove flood water from slatted tanks, and movement of stock to avoid animal welfare risks.
Farmers wishing to avail of these emergency arrangements should contact their local District Veterinary Office.
He also drew attention to the need for farm safety vigilance.
“Flooded lands carry hidden dangers,” he warned.
