Proposal to suspend Straw Incorporation Measure for 2024
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D, today, July 19, announced that he intends to seek a deferral of the 2024 Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM) from the European Commission.
Referring to the scheme, the Minister emphasised the importance of balancing availability of straw in the coming winter and the environmental and soil health benefits of the scheme.
When making the announcement, Minister McConalogue said: “Last winter depleted national reserves of straw and resulted in very little availability in the early months of this year. At present, although growth is improving, the indications are that fodder is still behind where we would like to be.
“While I appreciate that tillage farmers may be disappointed by this move, there is a very strong market for straw this year due to the shortage and the need to replenish supplies. I remain fully committed to meeting the targets for Straw Incorporation over the lifetime of the CAP Strategic Plan.”
Reflecting on the advice communicated following the National Fodder and Food Security Committee (NFFSC) last week, the Minister said: “It is critically important for all farmers to ensure they have secured supplies of straw and fodder for the winter ahead. I urge those who need straw to engage with tillage farmers to ensure their supplies are secure for the coming winter.”
As a next step in deferring the measure, Minister McConalogue will now engage with the Farmers Charter and CAP Monitoring Committee on the proposal to suspend the measure for this year before proceeding to make an application to the EU requesting approval.
Also read: Book straw supply as soon as possible