Speaking after the Executive meeting Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew and Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: “The Executive recognises the financial implications of the contaminated feed incident for some producers and processors. Recently we have met both groups to hear of their concerns directly. We have also had useful discussions with Commissioner Fischer Boel this week on the actions we are taking to deal with the consequences of the contaminated feed incident.
“There are significant pressures on the Executive’s budget. However with the agreement of colleagues, we have decided to increase the funding available for hardship payments to processors and producers. This brings the total amount of public funding, including a possible EU contribution, to £9.6million and will also cover the cost of the cull and disposal scheme. This is a very significant level of public support. We are working closely with the Commission to secure the necessary approval of our measures and on co-financing support.”
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