FCI in constructive discussions with government

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris TD and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon TD met this evening with the Association of Farm & Forestry Contractors in Ireland (FCI) and the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) to discuss the impact of rising energy costs arising from the ongoing conflict in the Gulf.

The central focus of the meeting was to establish a structured and ongoing process of engagement over the coming days, weeks and months as part of a whole of Government approach. These are serious challenges facing the agricultural sector, and addressing them will require close and coordinated contact between Government and the sector to protect farm family incomes and safeguard the State’s food security.

A range of specific proposals were put forward by the sector, with constructive discussion on the need for a range of possible targeted interventions.

There is no single solution, and the uncertainty surrounding the duration and trajectory of the conflict further complicates the response.

There was agreement to reconvene shortly.