Fodder production incentive 'badly needed' as farmers fear for winter

In 2018, a similar scheme for tillage farmers was introduced to encourage them to sow forage crops on their land to reduce the feed deficit in the country. 

In 2018, a scheme for tillage farmers was introduced to encourage them to sow forage crops on their land to reduce the feed deficit in the country. 

Farmers are calling for the introduction of a fodder production incentive measure, similar to the one in 2018, to offset fodder shortages over the winter. 

Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association president Sean McNamara said that grass growth is well down on where it needs to be and, as a result, cattle are being fed from the first cuts of silage, eating into what should be stored for the winter.