WATCH: Laois farmer says 'Minister knows the price of everything and the value of nothing'

A Laois farmer and organic food producer has hit out at the proposal to suspend the Straw Incorporation Measure for 2024.

Vicarstown-based Kevin Scully said the scheme encouraged farmers to incorporate straw back into the soil to reduce the need for chemicals. He claimed the looming fodder crisis had led to the lobbying of the Minister to s to seek a defer the measure from the European Commission.

He said the move was an attempt to get everyone in tillage to bale straw in 2024.

“It is of very little benefit to the tillage sector and of no benefit to the natural world and the environment because this was a great system to get farmers to use what they have on the land to feed the soil,” he said.

Mr Scully, who runs The Merry Mill organic oats company, said ploughing straw into the land benefits food production.

“You need far less chemicals in the spring to produce high-quality food with a higher nutrient value,” he said.

He hit out at the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue for stating that there are good straw prices.

“Charlie probably knows the price of everything and the value of nothing because the price of soil health is invaluable. If we don't have soil health we won't have healthy people,” said the Laois Taste member.

The Minister said fodder production is behind.

“While I appreciate that tillage farmers may be disappointed by this move, there is a very strong market for straw this year due to the shortage and the need to replenish supplies. I remain fully committed to meeting the targets for Straw Incorporation over the lifetime of the CAP Strategic Plan,” he said.

The Minister reflected on the advice communicated following the National Fodder and Food Security Committee (NFFSC).

“It is critically important for all farmers to ensure they have secured supplies of straw and fodder for the winter ahead. I urge those who need straw to engage with tillage farmers to ensure their supplies are secure for the coming winter,” he said.

He said he will now be engaging with the Farmers Charter and CAP Monitoring Committee on the proposal  before proceeding to make an application to the EU requesting approval.