Grant scheme needed to support storm damaged farm buildings - Mayo TD

MAYO Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon has called on the Department of Agriculture to urgently open a grant scheme to support farmers whose buildings and equipment have been severely damaged by the destructive Storm Éowyn.

In recent days, Deputy Dillon has been contacted by farmers right across the county who have shared their stories of significant losses.

One farmer reported: 'Two of my farm buildings have lost their roofs entirely. Many sheds across the county remain unstable and require full re-roofing.'

Another farmer highlighted: 'My slatted shed has also suffered significant roof damage and will need partial replacement.'

Deputy Dillon emphasised the need for financial assistance to help farmers rebuild and replace their damaged assets: "Storm Éowyn has left many of our farmers in a dire situation, with essential structures and equipment destroyed. It is imperative that the Department of Agriculture steps in to provide the necessary support through a dedicated grant scheme for farm buildings."

Deputy Dillon has written to his colleague, Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon, to advocate for the opening of this grant scheme and the inclusion of storm-related provisions in the TAMS programme.

He said he is committed to campaigning for the farming community and will continue to push for robust state support to address the challenges posed by recent severe weather events.