Aid package announced for Leitrim farmers impacted by Shass Mountain landslide
The long wait to finalise a compensation package for the farmers impacted by the Shass Mountain landslide in 2020 is finally over.
Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue has announced an aid package to support farmers whose lands were adversely impacted following the landslide near Drumkeeran on June 28, 2020.
The package will provide financial support to those landowners whose agricultural lands were inundated with peat silt and sludge as a consequence of the overspill caused by the landslide.
Additionally, support will also be provided for fencing and gateways on agricultural land affected by the landslide. Farmers will be able to qualify for payments of up to a maximum of €20,000 each.
For the owners of forestry affected by the landslide, funding is being provided for the reconstitution of affected forest areas as part of the aid package.
Announcing the scheme, Minister McConalogue stated: “Having visited the Drumkeeran area in November 2021 I witnessed the significant effect of the landslide on the locality. It was incredibly tough on everyone in the area.
“I have worked closely with my parliamentary colleagues especially Minister Michael McGrath to deliver a financial support package which will provide direct financial assistance to those farmers directly affected by the landslide.”
Minister McConalogue commended the work done by the Inter Agency working group chaired by Minister Malcolm Noonan in the aftermath of the landslide. The Minister also complimented Leitrim County Council for their work in restoring local access and drainage following the landslide.
“As well as support from Minister McGrath, I worked closely with Minister Frank Feighan, then cathaoirleach Cllr Paddy O’Rourke and Cllr Mary Bohan as well as the landowners and their representatives to deliver this package."
He also acknowledged Leitrim County Council chief executive, Lar Power who acted swiftly in repairing the damaged road.
"I hope this package will help those affected to move on with their lives after what was a hugely challenging situation," said Minister McConalogue.
The Department is writing to those affected by the landslide with details of the scheme.
Minister McConalogue said: "The attention of applicants is drawn to the closing date for the receipt of applications under the aid package which shall be Wednesday 30th November 2022. This is to ensure that payments under the Aid Package can be made as quickly as possible."