This article is from page 18 of the 2013-04-30 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 18 JPG
FARMERS from the North and West area of Clare are reporting thefts of bales and other fodder from their farms.
As the farmers endure the greatest fodder shortage in living memory, those lucky enough to still have some of last year’s harvest now fear it may be taken as some farmers already say they have been the victim of such thefts.
Gardaí say that while they have heard of a number of incidents of this happening, they have received just a few official reports to that effect.
Kilrush area Superintendent Gerry Wall described these thefts as “particularly nasty”.
The senior garda maintains that stealing bales, silage and other fodder from hard-pressed farmers, is adding to their stresses and making life even more difficult.
Farmers are not just at the financial loss of the bale of hay or silage, but find it difficult to replace it to feed their own animals as the crisis fodder continues.
“It [fodder] has a value, and people are taking advantage of those who are already in a difficult situation. It is a particularly nasty theft,” said the superintendent.
He encouraged people to come forward and report such incidents and anyone with any information to also call the Gardaí.
“This is a particularly difficult time for the farming community, and I am happy to help in any way,” he added.
Farmers say those with bales to sell can name their price as most farmers have come to the end of their own supply.
A wet summer and autumn last year resulted in a very poor harvest. Leaving many farmers short of the required fodder to feed their animals. A cold and wet spring is adding to their difficulties, as their animals cannot be let out to graze, adding to an already deepening agricultural crisis.