Fianna Fáil TD, Brendan Smith has welcomed over €121.6m in payments for Cavan/Monaghan from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine during 2025.

The funding forms part of a €2.18 billion national package supporting farmers and fishers across the country.

Deputy Brendan Smith said the payments are vital for rural and coastal communities:

“As we reach the end of 2025, it is crucial to recognise the importance of continued, targeted support for farmers and fishers, particularly in coastal and at-risk areas. These payments are not just financial supports; they are an investment in the future of rural and coastal Ireland.

“Farmers and fishers are under growing pressure from climate change, rising costs and market uncertainty. In marginal and coastal areas, these challenges are intensified by isolation and limited alternative employment. Sustained support is essential to protect livelihoods and community viability.”

Deputy Brendan Smith added:

“In Fianna Fáil we are committed to protecting family farm incomes and supporting generational renewal, with 2025 funding helping farmers maintain productive and environmentally sustainable practices. For fishers, the funding supports small-scale fleets, improves safety, encourages diversification and sustains coastal economies.

Concluding, Deputy Brendan Smith said Cavan and Monaghan has benefited from significant investment in 2025 and expressed confidence that further supports will follow in 2026.

“Farming and food production are critical components of the local economy in Cavan and Monaghan and this sector, which has very high standards, needs to be protected against any trade deals that would facilitate the importation of inferior food products to our country.

“Fianna Fáil is committed to supporting family farm incomes, generation renewal and the fishers by ensuring the importance of their work and need for support is not understated or underfunded.