An Independent TD, Marian Harkin, has called on the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, to establish a dedicated sheep forum and implement emergency aid for the sector. This follows a protest by the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association, who are experiencing high input costs and low prices. Harkin recommends an increased payment under the Sheep Improvement Scheme and extra payment for wool presentation, as part of an emergency aid package. She also suggests the implementation of the 2019 Task Force recommendations, increased promotional work by Bord Bia, and exploring EU Protected Geographical Indication status for grass-fed Irish lamb.