Macra calls for urgent action as dry weather hits Young Farmers

Macra has called for urgent action to support young farmers facing mounting financial and fodder pressures as prolonged dry weather continues to impact farms across the country. 

Macra joined other farming organisations in meeting Minister Martin Heydon, highlighting that many young farmers are already feeding winter fodder and purchasing concentrates due to poor grass growth, adding further pressure to already tight cash flows. 

Macra President Josephine O’Neill said: “Young farmers are facing another significant and unforeseen cost. Many are feeding silage intended for the winter while purchasing concentrates far earlier than planned. With margins already extremely tight, this is creating serious cash flow pressure.”

Macra also highlighted concerns around diminished winter fodder stocks and reduced yields for tillage farmers and vegetable growers. 

The organisation welcomed the Minister’s commitment to reconvene the National Fodder and Food Security Committee, but expressed disappointment that no concrete timeline was provided. 

“The committee needs to meet urgently, and it cannot be a talking shop. We need concrete actions and meaningful supports that address the challenges farmers are facing now and in the months ahead,” the Macra President said.

Macra echoed the Minister’s call for farmers to complete fodder budgets to assess available stocks and help inform the response required. 

“The situation is developing quickly. We need to understand the scale of the challenge and ensure young farmers are supported before pressures deepen further.”