Wicklow TD Calls For Straw Incorporation Funding For Struggling Tillage farmers

Brian Brennan presses Government for a decision on the Straw Incorporation Measure for struggling tillage sector

Fine Gael TD for Wicklow-Wexford, Brian Brennan, has pressed Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon to ensure that all farmers who applied for funding under the Straw Incorporation Measure receive their full payment.

Speaking in Dáil Éireann, Deputy Brennan said:

"Taoiseach, I'm looking for an update in relation to the Straw Incorporation Measure. It is my understanding that there will be significant oversubscription to the scheme, with expected payments exceeding the €10 million budget allocated for 2026.

"It is essential that we find a way to extend the budget of this scheme to meet all expected payments. In my constituency of Wexford, we have a proud tradition of tillage farming. But, putting it bluntly, pride will not pay the bills."

Deputy Brennan continued:

"Tillage farmers have never been at a lower ebb. Any reduction or non-payment within this scheme will be a devastating blow to the sector.

"The scheme targets the reduction of carbon emissions, therefore we must continue to encourage farmers to participate, not dissuade them."

Concluding his remarks, Deputy Brennan said:

"Taoiseach, Minister, to put it simply, the tillage sector is on its knees, and farmers within this sector are dependent on these payments as a means of survival. I appeal to Minister Heydon and yourself, Taoiseach, to ensure there is no shortfall."

Responding, Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon said:

"Thanks, Deputy Brennan, for raising this really important issue. I know, particularly in the south-east and in the Wexford area, how important tillage is, and how important the Straw Incorporation Measure is — a really positive support measure for tillage farmers, with very positive impacts on organic carbon levels in soil.

"I'm acutely aware of how important it is to farmers too, from an income perspective. This year has seen a really high level of applications, far exceeding the €10 million allocated for it."

Minister Heydon concluded:

"At present, all possible options are being considered, and a decision will be made shortly. Farmers will be notified as soon as possible as to the details of the scheme for 2026."