Department examining potential supports for sheep farmers amid 'income crisis'

The "crisis" can only be alleviated by immediate direct supports from Government, the Irish Farmers' Association has said.

In 2022, gross margins on sheep farms decreased by 14%, with net margins dropping 81% to just €7 per ewe. This included the Sheep Welfare Scheme payment. 

The Department of Agriculture said it is currently examining potential supports it can put in place for sheep farmers in light of recent challenges facing the sector.

Speaking on Thursday, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture Martin Heydon said that budgets for 2023 have been set and changes to these would require "careful assessment, as well as diverting funds from previously agreed areas".