State aid: Commission approves €60 million Irish scheme to support fodder producers in the context of Russia's war against Ukraine

he scheme was approved under the State Aid Temporary Crisis Framework, adopted by the Commission on 23 March 2022 and amended on 20 July 2022 and on on 28 October 2022. Under the scheme, the aid will take the form of direct grants.  

The purpose of the scheme is to provide liquidity support to agricultural companies, and in particular to fodder producers, which are heavily affected by the current geopolitical crisis and the consequent increase of energy and other input costs. 

The Commission found that the Irish scheme is in line with the conditions set out in the Temporary Crisis Framework. In particular, the aid

1. will not exceed €250,000 per beneficiary; and
2. will be granted no later than 31 December 2023.

The Commission concluded that the scheme is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy of a Member State, in line with Article 107(3)(b) TFEU and the conditions set out in the Temporary Crisis Framework. On this basis, the Commission approved the scheme under EU State aid rules. 

More information on the Temporary Crisis Framework and other actions taken by the Commission to address the economic impact of Russia's war against Ukraine can be found here. The non-confidential version of the decision will be made available under the number SA.104737 in the State aid register on the Commission's competition website once any confidentiality issues have been resolved.