Storm Éowyn Devastates Irish Horticulture Sector: Preliminary Damage Estimates Reach €4.46 Million
The Irish horticulture sector is reeling from the aftermath of Storm Éowyn, with initial estimates placing the cost of damages at €4.46 million. The storm, which struck during a critical planting period, has left glasshouses, nurseries, mushroom farms, and organic growers grappling with significant losses, including damaged polytunnels, destroyed crops, and compromised equipment.
While the full extent of the damage remains difficult to quantify, the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), in collaboration with the Organic Growers of Ireland (OGI) and Teagasc, has worked to compile preliminary figures. The €4.46 million estimate reflects direct losses, but does not account for the broader economic impact of business disruptions caused by structural damage.
At a recent meeting of the Horticulture Industry Forum (HIF), IFA Horticulture Committee Chair Mark Walsh reported “positive engagement” with Minister of State for Horticulture, Micheal Healy-Rae. The meeting focused on the storm’s devastating impact on the commercial horticulture sector, with particular attention given to the challenges of structural repairs and stock losses.
Walsh emphasized that the minister demonstrated a willingness to understand the scale of the challenges faced by growers. He also noted the government’s commitment to reviewing the IFA’s request for financial assistance to support affected businesses.
Broader Sector Challenges Highlighted
Beyond the immediate fallout from Storm Éowyn, the IFA delegation used the forum to highlight ongoing pressures within the horticulture sector. Rising input costs, which continue to squeeze profit margins, were a key concern, with Walsh describing the sector as already “stressed” even before the storm hit.
The influence of major retailers in the food supply chain was also discussed, with the IFA calling for stronger powers for the Agri-Food Regulator to ensure fair practices. Additionally, the delegation stressed the need for improved government-grower collaboration to address labor shortages, a persistent issue for the sector.
Transition from Peat and Seed Potato Shortages
The meeting also addressed the sector’s transition away from native peat, a critical issue for many growers. The IFA emphasized the need for government support to help the industry adapt until viable alternatives to peat are fully developed.
Another pressing concern raised was the availability of seed potatoes. The delegation called for a temporary derogation to address shortages until the Irish seed sector can meet demand.
A Call for Urgent Action
As the horticulture sector works to recover from Storm Éowyn’s devastation, the IFA has urged the government to act swiftly in providing financial aid and addressing broader industry challenges. With growers facing a perfect storm of natural disasters, rising costs, and supply chain pressures, the need for decisive support has never been greater.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining how the sector rebuilds and whether the government’s response will be sufficient to safeguard the future of Irish horticulture.
