Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon visits farmers in Leitrim impacted by power outages

The Minister for Agriculture, Food, Fisheries and the Marine, Martin Heydon visited Leitrim on Tuesday to meet with farmers who have been affected by the power and water outages caused by Storm Éowyn.

Thousands still remain without power and water in the county since the storm hit Ireland last Friday. Among the many people impacted by the prolonged outages are, of course, farmers.

Sharing some photos from his visit on X, the Fine Gael TD acknowledged it has been particularly challenging to farms "at a time when animals are housed and calving is in full swing."

READ NEXT: Almost 30 support hubs open in Leitrim following Storm Éowyn

The Minister praised the local farming community who have worked together to assist neighbours and fellow farmers in clearing debris from roads, providing water and finding alternative power supplies. 

Today I visited farms in Co Leitrim which has been significantly impacted by Storm Eowyn. Prolonged power and water outages are causing a particular challenge at a time when animals are housed and calving is in full swing. (1/5) pic.twitter.com/vUs2Xm1udX

— Martin Heydon (@martinheydonfg) January 28, 2025

Minister Heydon added: "We are continuing concentrate efforts on restoring power, water, and other services to homes, farms and businesses. My Department is working with Teagasc and Collite to co-ordinate our response and provide support where possible."

He also said that Teagasc has been providing advice and options to farmers who have been impacted by water supply issues since the storm.

For farmers who have had to endure delays or cancellations of farm inspections, the TD said: "those farms which have sustained significant damage or are without power or water, Department officials will work with them on alternative arrangements."

As 133,000 homes remain without power and 7,500 without water across the country as of Wednesday, the problem is far from over for many.