Just nine applications for the Fodder Transport Support Measure have been completed by the Department of Agriculture.

The figures have been confirmed by a Department spokesperson who added that they expect more applications before the scheme closes in April.

“This is not unexpected as farmers may be holding off submitting application forms until they receive the required amount of fodder, thereby only submitting one declaration form from the co-operative,” the Department stated.

Completed application

“Processing of applications for payment can only take place when the completed application including the co-operative declaration and fodder budget has been received.”

The fodder scheme has caused considerable controversy since its introduction, with farm organisations calling for an overhaul of the scheme, due to the low uptake.

The IFA has called for a meal voucher scheme to be introduced, as fodder supplies continue to come under pressure, due to a lack of grass growth across the country.

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Under 10 fodder scheme applications submitted

There has been a very small uptake for the fodder scheme introduced by the minister in January.