Fianna Fáil Senator in Monaghan, Robbie Gallagher, has welcomed the commencement of payments under the Sheep Improvement Scheme to farmers in recent days.
The scheme has been introduced to enhance animal health and welfare in the sheep sector.
The Scheme provides financial support to farmers for taking extra steps to improve the welfare of their flock.
Senator Gallagher said advance payments totalling €19 million have started to issue to 17,000 farmers under the Sheep Improvement Scheme and will be visible in farmers' bank accounts in the coming days.
The local senator added that he knows that these payments will make a real difference for sheep farmers.
Mr Gallagher concluded by highlighting that the sheep sector is vitally important both across the country and here in the Shannonside Northern Sound region and it is vital that it continues to receive the support it needs.
