INHFA pushes for targeted farm support in Budget 2026

The Irish Natura and Hill Farmers’ Association is urging government to protect farmers’ futures despite a strong year for beef and sheep prices. Its Budget 2026 proposals focus on direct payments to buffer against market swings and rising costs. Priorities include €300 per hectare for designated lands, €85 million for suckler cow welfare, and €30 per ewe to offset sector inflation. It’s also calling for a synthetic fibre tax to boost the wool industry and DNA sampling of all dogs to reduce attacks on sheep. A retirement scheme starting at €350 per week from age 60 is on the table, alongside €3,000 annual payments for Irish-speaking farmers to sustain rural language and culture. INHFA warns that without these measures, profitability gains could vanish as fast as they arrived.

Read the full article to explore INHFA’s budget demands in detail.