A €50 million support package for beef farmers impacted by the COVID-19 crisis announced this week has been welcomed as good news for a sector with many challenges.
Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed announced on Friday that the Cabinet had given its approval for the multi-million scheme to help beef farmers who have been suffering economically in this crisis.
The COVID-19 crisis has had a significant impact on demand for the supply of beef, with difficulties created by the closure of almost all restaurants and other eateries.
Galway East TD Seán Canney said the initiative reflects the financial difficulties beef farmers are facing.
“Our beef farmers were one of the first sectors to have been badly hit by Brexit and the advent of the COVID-19 virus has made a challenging situation worse with the collapse of the export market and many food outlets and fast food chains having to close.”
The Independent TD added that there are still “outstanding issues” surrounding the price of beef, which need to be addressed.
“They can only be resolved by all the stakeholders coming together and I am pleased to see that the Beef Taskforce is due to meet at the end of the month.”
“In the meantime this immediate measure for beef finishers is very welcome. Pending European Union state aid approval and engagement with farmers, I hope the scheme will be available as soon as possible.”
