Mixed reaction among farming groups to Budget measures
Irish farming groups have expressed mixed reactions to the 2027 national budget, citing concerns over rising costs despite some positive measures. While some groups welcomed changes to succession partnerships, others criticized the lack of funding for specific succession schemes.
Why it matters
Highlights the economic tensions between government fiscal policy and the agricultural sector's need for sustainability and generational renewal.
Agriculture & Consumer Affairs Correspondent
There's been a mixed reaction from farming groups to the agricultural measures announced in Budget 2027, with the Irish Farmers' Association seeking further measures to address surging costs.
The fuel-income support scheme for farmers and agricultural contractors has been extended for a further five months at a cost of €31.2 million.
While €31 million has been allocated for a new fertiliser scheme to support farmers with higher fertiliser costs.
IFA President Francie Gorman said the budget "contains a number of measures consistent with our asks" but that more supports will be needed to help farmers manage surging costs.
He said: "On the expenditure side, there is an increase in funding for some schemes, but our concern is that there may not be enough to avoid linear cuts to individual farmer payments particularly in our most vulnerable sectors."
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in