Waterford Fine Gael Senator John Cummins has welcomed the decision to reinstate the Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM) / straw chopping scheme following discussions between Minister McConalogue and farm organisations.
Speaking on the topic Senator Cummins stated: “Since the introduction of the measure in 2021, straw chopping has become part of annual planting and harvesting plans. It has allowed farmers to build organic stocks in their soil, offeringthe opportunity to reduce our reliance on imported P and K’s,in addition to providing an important financial support.”
Senator Cummins continued: “Last week Minister Martin Heydon and I displayed our opposition to the scheme’s suspension, due to the fact that the Straw Incorporation Measure is a well-established scheme that is significant to many tillage farmers. The agreement reached last weekensures its continuation and the integrity of what is an important scheme is safeguarded.”
“I had several tillage farmers in contact with me last week and I was able to reassure them that I was working closely with Minister Heydon to ensure the reinstatement of the scheme”.
Senator Cummins concluded: “The decision made by Minister McConalogue draws a line under a difficult week for tillage farmers who continue to try to save the harvest in difficult weather conditions. I welcome that they can do so now with clarity that the important Straw Incorporation Measure they depend on will continue.”