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Flood Damage Assesment Welcomed - Hearty

Published: 28 August, 2008

Sinn Féin's Spokesperson on Agriculutre, Terry Hearty has welcomed confirmation from The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) that work is now well underway on an assessment of the damage arising from recent flooding.

Mr. Hearty said

"Last week Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew requested an assessment to be made of the damage caused to farming by recent flooding. The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has now confirmed that inspections have begun and are continuing throughout this week.

These inspections are concentrating on the worst affected areas and priority is being given to seed and ware potatoes and arable crops.

"I would encourage farmers who have suffered damage from flooding to contact DARD, during office hours, on 028 6634 3172. Callers will be asked to provide details of their business ID; their field references, if possible and details of the crops affected. An inspector will then arrange a visit to assess the damage.

Any farmer seeking technical advice should contact their local Development Adviser and look out for published management notes providing information on dealing with adverse weather conditions in the farming press.

There will also be a facility to give the same details to the department on their website at: http://www.dardni.gov.uk