The government is working to finalize a “large and substantial” support package to address rising fuel prices.
However, key details are yet to be determined and there will be more sharing over the weekend.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Haydon and Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien met today (Friday 10 April) with national representative bodies from agricultural contractors and the agriculture, food, transport and shipping sectors to discuss the significant challenges arising from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Ministers of State Sean Caney, Noel Grealish, Timmy Dooley and Michael Healy-Rae also attended the meeting.
Earlier in the afternoon, the government appeared to be taking a tough stance He wanted to see the protests and blockades end before making any proposals.
It now appears that the government will at least propose a package, pending the finalization of details.
The meeting brought together key representative organizations for a “full and frank” discussion on the increasing pressures facing these sectors, particularly in relation to rising fuel and fertilizer costs, which are driving up production costs and putting pressure on supply chains.
A government statement said that the ministers expressed their understanding of the seriousness of the situation and the pressures on farmers, contractors and transport operators.
The ministers affirmed “the government’s commitment to supporting those affected and recognized the need to take rapid and targeted action.”
The government confirmed that “a large and enhanced support package is being finalized in detail, in addition to the 250 million euros already allocated, to ease the burden on the affected sectors.”
The government said constructive engagement with stakeholders will continue over the weekend and will meet again tomorrow (Saturday, April 11) to finalize details of the response.
The government said it wanted to finalize the proposals as soon as possible.
It is understood that the meetings will be held tomorrow on a sectoral basis, meaning transporters will meet with the Transport Minister and farm representatives will meet with Minister Haydon.
It is understood that the meeting was generally constructive, although there were occasional moments of tension.
