Payments for Natural Fertiliser Schemes Suspended for 1,200 Farmers
Minister Martin Heydon has suspended two natural fertiliser payment schemes, active since 2022, affecting 1,200 farmers. This decision, criticized by Jennifer Whitmore, occurs amidst a chemical fertiliser crisis. The schemes, which paid €2.1 million last year, are under review, despite their environmental and cost-saving benefits for farmers.
Payments for two schemes supporting natural methods to fertilise grass, in place since 2022, have been suspended by Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon. This decision, described as «completely nonsensical» by Social Democrats environment spokeswoman Jennifer Whitmore, comes amid a growing crisis in chemical fertiliser supply and cost.
The department stated that applications under both schemes will be paused and not accepted for 2026 until a review of their effectiveness is complete. Last year, €2.1 million was paid to 1,200 farmers, with average payments of €1,750 and a €6,000 ceiling. These schemes supported planting red clover and multispecies swards, which naturally capture nitrogen, reducing the need for chemical fertilisers and mitigating pollution.
Whitmore criticized the move, highlighting farmers are «being absolutely hammered by high fertiliser prices because of the Iran war and fossil fuel costs.» The EU recently announced an emergency Fertiliser Action Plan to secure supply and help farmers. Teagasc, a state agency, advocates for red clover and multispecies swards for their benefits in soil fertility, animal performance, and cost reduction, despite potential weed control challenges.