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Dáil
‹ Ceisteanna ar Pholasaí nó ar Reachtaíocht – Questions on Policy or Legislation

Fuel costs for farm contractors

Summary

Deputy McGrath said farm and forestry contractors are being hit hard by soaring green diesel and AdBlue costs and need urgent engagement. The Minister said sectoral supports already exist and that he would raise any specific request with the Agriculture Minister.

Farm contractors and forestry contractors made a presentation in the audiovisual room here some months ago. They represent a vital component within the industry. They were pleading with the Government. They asked to meet the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine, who has ignored them, and the Minister for Finance. At €1.51 per litre, agricultural green diesel is now three times the price it was last year, with the additional cost of the AdBlue. This industry is vital for the delivery of our crops, our harvest, our food supply and timber for building. They want a certain amount of fuel ring-fenced for the harvest to ensure they can continue. Nothing has been done and no heat has been taken off them. It seems the Government is not interested in them. Is the Government trying to create a situation where it will starve the people and there will be no food? What is happening seems obvious to me. It is the same as it is doing with its policy of inward immigration. It is madness, to be honest. However, Ministers will not even meet the people and listen to them. They are elected to represent the people in government and they have a duty to meet these incredible organisations. When will Ministers meet them?

Comment on this

Deputy Mattie McGrath is well aware - this was discussed yesterday and earlier today - of the measures we have introduced to help different sectors. If there is a specific request with regard to any sector, I will certainly raise that with the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Forestry licensing in 2021 was 56% higher than in 2020. It is a very important component and part of our materials for the delivery of housing and other infrastructure. We are supporting those sectors through the measures we are taking during this cost-of-living crisis. If the Deputy has received a specific request, he should pass that to me and I will discuss it directly with the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and we will see if we can arrange a meeting shortly.

Comment on this