Minister Heydon meets farm organisations on the impact on farming of prolonged dry weather

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, today convened a meeting with Teagasc and the main farm organisations to discuss the impact of the prolonged dry weather on farming.

Minister Heydon acknowledged that this is a stressful time for farmers particularly in the

east and south of the country, the regions most impacted by the current prolonged dry spell. Today’s meeting was an opportunity for stakeholder organisations to outline the challenges that farmers are currently dealing with.

Minister Heydon said:

“It is important that farmers take appropriate action to ensure sufficient fodder stocks for the coming winter. Completing a fodder budget is critical to establish if and what action needs to be taken at farm level, regionally and nationally. In light of the evolving situation, farmers should continue to update their fodder budget on Pasturebase Ireland or through their advisor.”

“I have asked the Chair of the National Fodder and Food Security Committee, Mike Magan, to convene a meeting of the Committee soon. This Committee includes representatives from my Department, Teagasc, Bord Bia, the farm organisations, banks, industry representative bodies and the farming media. This will provide a forum for communicating the latest information on fodder availability and clear advice on what farmers should do. The current situation is adding costs on affected farms, and I would encourage farmers to engage with their banks, merchants, and co-ops on any cash flow concerns.”

Minister Heydon continued:

“The Government is committed to supporting the sector in what has been a difficult year. The call from farm organisations for additional supports will be considered when the full picture is available and in the context of Budget 2027. Many farm organisations also called for flexibilities on a range of measures, which will be kept under review.”

Minister Heydon said:

“Finally, I would encourage farmers to reach out for support – whether that is to their advisor, their farm organisation, or the many other support services. Help and advice is available."