Joint Committee on Agriculture and Food meets for engagement on the Reduction in the Farmer VAT Flat-Rate Addition

The Joint Committee on Agriculture and Food meets on Wednesday 23rd September at 15:30 for engagement on the reduction in the Farmer VAT Flat-Rate Addition in Committee Room 4 of Leinster House.

The meeting in 2 sessions will hear from representatives and officials from:

Session 1 - 15:30 - 16:20
• Irish Co-operative Organisation Society
• Clare Co-Operative Marts
• Golden Vale Marts

Session 2 - 16:20 - 18:00
• Office of the Revenue Commissioners
• Department of Finance

Speaking ahead of the meeting Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Aindrias Moynihan said:
"The Committee will examine the implications of the recent reduction in the Farmer VAT Flat Rate Addition. The Flat Rate scheme which was designed to compensate unregistered farmers for VAT incurred on inputs, has long been a core support for smaller and medium sized family farms. The reduction was introduced following changes in EU calculations of agricultural input costs and has prompted questions about its impact on farm viability, cash flow pressures and the competitiveness of primary producers at a time when farmers are already facing rising costs, volatile market conditions and tightening regulatory requirements.

"Our Committee Members will hear directly from the stakeholders attending tomorrow about how the lower Flat Rate Addition may affect farmers' ability to reinvest, maintain production levels and manage day to day expenses. The discussion will also consider whether further Government action is needed to safeguard farm incomes, ensure fairness in the supply chain and protect the sustainability of rural communities."

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