Macra in call for assistance on farmer wellbeing

MACRA na Feirme has called for a farm assistance programme as part of its prebudget submission, in a bid to safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of farmers.

The group said the programme would cost some €1.2million, or roughly €10 per farmer.

“Since Budget Day 2018 we have had the toughest weather conditions ever faced by farmers,” Macra na Feirme National President James Healy said.

“Extremes of rain, cold and heat have led to high input costs and even higher levels of stress for farm families all over the country.

“The Government needs to show its commitment to young farmers by addressing both the immediate issue of high stress levels amongst farmers and, also, the long-term funding required to have a serious impact on issues threatening the futures of our young farmers.

“I believe we have put together a package of positive, but realistic, measures that can make a real difference.”

The group explained its programme would cover issues such as stress management and resilience; work-life balance and effectiveness; wellness; conflict-resolution; and financial planning.

Measures such as helplines and one-to-one discussions could serve as avenues for farmers to engage with the programme. Macra has also proposed is the introduction of tax relief on leasing of farmland between family members.