At a time of unprecedented crisis in farming, Teagasc’s plans to close its advisory centre in Mullinavat make “absolutely no sense” according to local Fine Gael Senator, John Paul Phelan.
His comments come in the wake of a meeting with Teagasc Area Manager for Waterford and Kilkenny, John Moloney.
“Attempts were made to close this very same office five years ago and that plan was stopped. Farming is in crisis and farm families need advice and support now more than ever. The Mullinavat advisory centre has served the 700 surrounding farm families very well and this arrangement should continue. This centre is also used in and by the community for meetings, etc, and is an invaluable asset to Mullinavat.
“This closure has been suggested as a cost-saving measure but Teagasc’s plans to move staff from Mullinavat into Kildalton will also involve costs. I want to put it up to the Government now to save the Mullinavat office and scrap this closure plan,” Senator Phelan said.
