With suckler cow and sheep numbers continuing to fall the Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) have expressed disappointment with the proposals announced in Budget 2026. Speaking on this INHFA vice president John Joe Fitzgerald outlined how “the decision to not increase direct support for our suckler and sheep sectors is a missed opportunity in addressing the ongoing decline in stock numbers.”
“While Government may point to the improved prices across both sectors the decision to flat-line supports is a concerning development, as it indicates they are willing to accept declining numbers” stated Fitzgerald. This he continued “is an issue we will address with the Minister as we seek commitments to protect and enhance both sectors which are also critical in supporting the wider rural economy.”
With regard to the increased support in tackling rising levels of TB, the INHFA vice-president stressed “that the very high level of spending will need to deliver results,” adding that “the €85m allocated is higher that the monies allocated under the Beef Welfare Scheme and over four times the allocation of the National Sheep Welfare Scheme.”
On proposals around climate and biodiversity, Fitzgerald was scathing on the decision to increase carbon tax to €71/ton and the immediate application of this increase on motor fuel. This he stated “isn’t just a direct attack on those living in rural areas, but will also increase production and travel costS that will impact our exports.”
“At a time when competitors across the globe are looking to reduce costs, the decision to stay wedded to this ideology is a major cause of concern” added the farm leader.
Fitzgerald also addressed the increased budget commitment of €209m for Climate Action and Environment Leadership Programme. With €82m of this targeted to a just transition for the midlands it is he stated “important that we get clarity on how and where this money will be spent.
This he continued is critical “because these initiatives are often sold as supporting climate and biodiversity, with the assumption that farmers are beneficiaries, while in reality they see little if any of the funding.”
In concluding the INHFA leader, pointed to the increased allocation for the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund and questioned “if this is to support the implementation of the Nature Restoration Law and if there will be ringed fencing of monies inside this fund for the implementation of actions and costs resulting from the implementation of the law.”