OGI Representation
Storm Éowyn Update
Storm Éowyn brought unprecedented damage to growers around the country, and severe disruption to the sector, with extensive damage to polytunnels, glasshouses, crops and other farm infrastructure. Many organic growers are facing significant losses, with some experiencing total destruction of all of their polytunnels.
Following a survey of damage sustained and further feedback from our members, an OGI representative met with Minister Michael Healy-Rae and senior DAFM officials at the Spring meeting of the Horticulture Industry Forum on February 11th 2025, where we presented a statement, which you can read here, outlining the impact of Storm Éowyn on growers, the key challenges they face in the recovery process, and our recommendations for government support. The Minister assured us at the time that “a very clear DAFM response will be issued very quickly.”
Following the meeting, the OGI submitted this statement to DAFM, requesting that our recommendations be taken into account when formulating their response to affected growers.
On February 14th 2025, DAFM announced a targeted reopening of an existing scheme: The 2025 Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector. While this scheme offers some assistance for growers who can replace destroyed polytunnels and plastic, it falls significantly short of the recommendations we put forward.
Under the reopened scheme, aid will be provided at a maximum rate of 40% (or 50% for young farmers and licensed organic growers) on the approved net cost of investments. The minimum eligible investment is €7,500 (excluding VAT), and the deadline for completed applications is Friday, March 7th, 2025. Full details of the scheme, including the Application Form, Terms and Conditions, and an FAQ document, are available on the department’s website.
Please note that the scheme only applies to new investments in response to damage from Storm Éowyn—repair work is not eligible. From our discussions with DAFM officials since the announcement, it seems unlikely that there will be any changes to their current proposal. The OGI is continuing to engage with DAFM and the Minister to express our members’ dissatisfaction with the level of support offered, particularly the lack of assistance for polytunnel repairs, crop losses, and income disruption caused by storm damage.
The OGI, set up by growers for growers, remains committed to representing the interests of growers impacted by this unprecedented event, to the fullest extent our resources allow.
We will keep you updated if there are any further developments.
Thank you for your ongoing support
Sincerely,
The OGI Team