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31 Jan 2026
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31 Jan 2026
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FILE PICTURE
IFA Dairy chairman Martin McElearney has said that an expansion of the permit allowance for dairy farm assistants is urgently needed for those who are reliant on permit holders for the Spring workload.
“We highlighted our recommendations for more permits and permits for dairy farm managers to the Department of Enterprise back in September and since then we had further engagements with department officials on the matter,” said Mr McElearney last month.
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Since their introduction 1,100 permits have been issued, providing a very valuable workforce to the dairy sector.
However, in 2025 farmers and agents have become very frustrated with the application process leading to significant delays.
“Additional permits need to be issued immediately and a swift application process must commence.
"We need to ensure farms are equipped with sufficient labour,” Mr McElearney concluded.
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