Matt Carthy

The extension of the ARP and the opportunity to discuss further with the DPOs contacted

Pension Contributions::To propose that credited social insurance contributions for Farm Assist recipients are provided, as is done for Jobseeker's Allowance/Benefit.::Backdating Credits Pre-2007::To propose extending PRSI credit entitlements to farmers who were ineligible before…

Fair Deal Reform::To propose reducing the 5-year land/business transfer clause to 3 years to allow more farmers to benefit from the Fair Deal Scheme.::To propose that land leased under Fair Deal should be classed as “actively farmed” to meet succession criteria.::To propose…

To propose that the current rate of Class S is retained, and resist any increases until short-term benefits (illness, disability) are included in the scheme.

PRSI Inclusion for All Farmers and Spouses::To propose that all farmers and spouses/partners working on the farm, are to be included in the PRSI system to ensure entitlement to the contributory old age pension and reduce the risk of poverty in old age.::Dual Pension Calculation…

To propose that, as the Teagasc Green Cert Course is a crucial qualification for young farmers in Ireland. Approving these courses for SUSI Grants would encourage more students to pursue agricultural education.::To propose that, as per the Programme for Government, there must be…

General Employment Permits::To propose no further increases in GEP annual salary.::To propose the need for a full roll-out of a Seasonal work permit Scheme for all horticulture sectors based on the national minimum wage.::To propose that there are supports for rising employment…

To propose the introduction of an agricultural Rainy-Day Fund, which allows farmers from all sectors to put aside a small percentage of their gross receipts, whether in their co-op, specially assigned bank account or State Farm Volatility Fund.::To propose that the deferred…

To propose that, similar to recipients of the Jobseekers Benefit and Jobseekers Allowance, recipients of Farm Assist should receive credited social insurance contributions for pension purposes.::That Social insurance credits should be provided to farmers on Farm Assist before…

Ukraine Civil Society Forum sought to inform TDs of concerns related to the consequence of the legislation particularly for older people, those with a disability or other vulnerability.

To influence the outcome of Budget 2024 on state pension increases.

Raise awareness and generate support for an increase in the State Pension.

Awaiting a result

Specific supports for lone parents during covid - income and social welfare supports, childcare are secured

To make the committee members aware of the issues affecting OPFs during COVID and advise on how best to combat these through policy and service provision.