2660. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine whether his Department has considered providing additional supports to livestock farmers in Galway east in light of the impact of recent periods of extreme weather; whether further assistance measures are under consideration by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59096/26]

2662. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine whether additional financial supports for livestock farmers affected by recent extreme weather events are being considered as part of Budget 2027; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59098/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 2660 and 2662 together.

My Department provides a range of supports and advisory notices regarding prolonged spells of extreme weather. During the recent very hot weather, these have included advisory notices on fire risk, farm safety and advice on animal welfare. In particular, farmers have been reminded to make sure their animals have access to water and shade, minimising transport if possible and monitoring carefully for heat stress. In addition, farmers themselves should also take care when working outdoors in hot weather, particularly taking appropriate action regarding skin care, hydration and when working with farm machinery.

My Department provides a wide range of support schemes for farmers, which act as a fundamental hedge against farm income volatility.