'Deeply disappointing' delay in forgotten farmer supports

In 2022, Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue announced that assistance for these farmers was forthcoming.

Mr McConalogue has said that his department has developed a "preliminary outline of a proposal" to provide support to the forgotten farmer group. 

"Work continues on addressing a number of issues, such as the funding required and consistency with public expenditure, before the details of the eligibility requirements and benefits to successful applicants under the scheme can be finalised," Mr McConalogue said in response to a parliamentary question. 

"Details of the scheme will be made available as soon as this process has been completed.

"I am committed to delivering for these farmers, many of whom find themselves in this situation through no fault of their own, at the earliest opportunity."

'Lack of urgency'

Sinn Féin spokesperson on agriculture Claire Kerrane said that details of a proposed scheme were expected earlier this year, and she has criticised there being no "timeframes or further details" yet.

"I find it incredible that these details have not yet been ironed out, given the delay to introducing a solution and the fact that details of the scheme were supposed to be announced in the early months of this year," Ms Kerrane said.

During that time we have had a budget announcement, and the minister has had ample opportunity to secure funding with regards to public expenditure as part of this annual process.

"The clear lack of urgency from this government in addressing the issue does not inspire hope that a scheme will be announced anytime soon and it seems likely this will now go into 2024."

Ms Kerrane said this cohort of farmers has "already waited far too long for a solution".

"A scheme is needed for these farmers, and it is needed now," Ms Kerrane said.

Sinn Féin included a proposal in the party's 'alternative Budget 2024' to compensate the forgotten farmers with a 50% restoration this year.