Karen Walsh: Farmers’ assets do not reflect their ability to pay in Fair Deal Scheme

As farmers’ residences are often located on the farm, it can make the remainder of the farm difficult to sell, and could force a sale of the entire farm assets.
The Government is due to publish a cross-departmental review in respect of the State’s nursing home Fair Deal support package, and there is increasing pressure to exempt a large percentage of farmer’s assets, when considering the contribution paid by farmer applicants under the scheme.