A debate in the Dáil on the proposed national cow cull has revealed a shocking display of incompetence and indifference by Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue, and Minister of State, Martin Haydon. The absence of any government TDs during this critical discussion has exposed a profound disregard for rural communities and the hardworking farmers who sustain them. Their silence speaks volumes and makes them complicit in the face of such blatant neglect.
Speaking from Leinster House this afternoon, Deputy Mattie McGrath, the leader of the Rural Independent group of TDs, expressed deep concern over the government’s lack of support for farmers. He stated, “It is deeply troubling that not a single government representative bothered to show up and support farmers during this vital debate. This indifference sends a distressing message to our farmers, who rely on their elected officials to listen and advocate for their interests.”
“The absence of rural Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael TDs during the debate highlights a complete abandonment of their responsibilities towards rural communities. The government’s prioritization of green activist policies and their reluctance to address the concerns of farmers is alarming.”
“Furthermore, it is evident that Minister McConalogue and Minister Haydon failed to familiarize themselves with the content of the motion, as their response seemed disconnected from reality. Their attempts to evade the issues raised in support of farmers are simply unacceptable. Genuine engagement, rather than dismissive rhetoric, is what farmers deserve.”
“The failure of the ministers to unequivocally rule out a national cow cull reveals that the Department of Agriculture is forging ahead with plans, favouring radical climate policies over the best interests of farmers. Such disingenuous and misleading actions have caused significant distress to farmers and rural communities dependent on agriculture for their livelihoods. This misguided approach not only undermines farmers’ livelihoods but also represents a deplorable attack on all rural communities. Farmers are the backbone of these communities, and any assault on their well-being reverberates throughout the fabric of rural life.”
“We are angry at Minister McConalogue and Minister Haydon for their pathetic behaviour during today’s debate. Their lack of commitment and disregard for the concerns of farmers is nothing short of a disgrace,”
“It is high time for the government to acknowledge that silence becomes complicit. The continued neglect of our farmers will not go unnoticed or unchallenged. We will, however, continue to stand firmly in solidarity with farmers and rural communities, advocating for justice, fairness, and a government that genuinely supports and listens to their needs,” concluded Deputy McGrath.
Tell us your thoughts in the Facebook post and share this with your friends.