Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
743. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the supports available or planned for suckler and beef farmers facing income volatility due to reduced cattle throughput and price pressure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45270/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department and Bord Bia constantly monitor the market situation across the beef supply chain and I understand the challenges currently facing suckler and beef farmers, including the ongoing volatility in global commodity markets.
One of the most effective tools in addressing volatility is the certainty provided by payments from both national and EU supports.
These include measures available to farmers through both the CAP Strategic Plan (CSP), which is worth €9.8 billion to farmers and rural communities over its lifetime, and through exchequer-funded schemes, designed to improve the productivity and profitability of participating enterprises.
Consistent with the Government’s commitment to protect and enhance farm incomes, my Department is providing a record level of national and EU supports aimed at promoting a viable, resilient and sustainable drystock sector.
I have allocated over €83 million in direct targeted supports for the suckler sector in 2026. In addition to the ongoing Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme, which is worth over €51 annually to participants, the National Dairy Beef Weighing Scheme has a budget of €4m and the 2026 Beef Welfare Scheme has a budget of €28 million and will open for applications in mid-August.
Ministerial trade missions and Bord Bia’s promotional activities further reinforce the position of Irish agri-food products, including beef, in British and European markets.
I am acutely aware of the volatile nature of farm income and in accordance with the programme for Government, I will continue to provide scheme supports for beef and suckler farmers to ensure the future viability and sustainability of those enterprises.
