Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan Brendan Smith has welcomed the announcement of the Beef Finishers Payment.   

The scheme is an Exchequer funded programme of €50 million to provide income support for up to 42,000 farmers with beef finishing enterprises, who have been impacted by the economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.  

Deputy Smith said, “No one needs reminding of just how difficult this year has been for beef farmers. COVID-19 has had an unprecedented impact on the sector. The introduction of this new payment is very welcome for beef farmers across Counties Cavan, Monaghan and nationwide.  

“Farmers with finished animals suffered from both reduced prices and other restrictions in getting animals to market. The closure of the hospitality sector impacted greatly on beef farmers. While this sector slowly reopens it is imperative the government support farmers. The scheme introduced by Minister Calleary is an important action in providing this support.  

“The scheme is targeted to farmers who were impacted from 1 February to 12 June 2020. Not only will this scheme support beef farmers, it will have a wider positive impact on the local economies of which the agri-sector plays an important role.  

“The scheme opens for applications on August 19th with the closing date September 9th. I would urge everyone to apply as soon as the scheme opens,” concluded Deputy Smith.