Written Answers Nos. 1-124
96. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine as the main shareholder of Coillte Ireland, if he will indicate a timeline for publication of the geographical survey carried out on Coillte lands in 1989. [47689/12]
View answerIn the first instance, I wish to advise the Deputy that the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform is actually the main shareholder in Coillte Teoranta. However, while I hold a lesser number of shares, there are a number of powers assigned to me under the Forestry Act 1988 under which Coillte Teoranta was established.
Coillte Teoranta, which was established as a private commercial company under the Forestry Act 1988, came into operation on 1 January 1989 at which time certain State lands totalling 396,000 hectares were vested in the Company in accordance with the Act. Coillte’s Annual Report and Accounts 1989, which were published following it’s AGM for that year, includes a map of Ireland showing the distribution of forests and also includes a summary by region. There is no record of a geological survey carried out by Coillte at this time.
Coillte has acquired land since its establishment and now manages an estate of some 442,000 hectares. For this reason, if the Deputy is seeking to ascertain the current geographical spread or location of Coillte forests, I understand that such information is published in the Company’s District Strategic Plans, which are accessible on the Company’s website, while a breakdown by County may be made available on request to the company itself. This would give the Deputy the current situation and is already in the public domain.
97. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the future funding of the horse racing industry, the need for a multi annual solution that would provide some stability for the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48405/12]
View answerEarlier this year I commissioned Indecon Consultants to undertake a Review into certain aspects of the Irish Horse Racing Industry. Indecon considered inter alia legislation, governance structures, funding and management of the horse racing industry in Ireland. Regarding funding the Report resulting from the Indecon study supports additional and sustainable funding for the development of the sector but states that this must be accompanied by an equal priority to maximise efficiency, effectiveness and value for money. In this context it identifies a number of areas to be addressed and recommends the introduction of measures to secure a significant increase in taxation from the Betting Sector and the creation of a level playing field between retail and remote off-course bookmakers and betting exchanges; a reduction in the size of the HRI Board and changes to the nomination and appointment processes; changes to the Committee structure of the Board; streamlining of functions between HRI & the Turf Club; new arrangements to address marketing and competitiveness.
I have indicated my general acceptance of the recommendations contained in the Indecon Report and I have confirmed my intention to bring forward legislative changes, where necessary, to implement the recommendations and update horse racing legislation.
Having considered the Indecon Report I have asked the Turf Club and HRI to immediately establish a Joint HRI/Turf Club Implementation Task Force, to address the opportunities for integration of functions, including shared services, with a view to achieving greater efficiencies and to achieve a minimum of 10% reduction in costs as identified in the report. This is a critical pre-requisite to future funding for the industry.
On funding generally the Minister for Finance has published the Betting (Amendment) Bill 2012 which when enacted will ensure that all bookmakers taking bets from Ireland will pay 1% betting duty on those bets in the same way that betting shops currently do. Betting Exchanges will also be subject to tax under the new arrangements but the calculation of the tax will differ from that applying to bookmakers. This measure will increase the yield to the Exchequer from betting.
On the specific allocation to the horse racing industry Indecon also recommended a multi-annual commitment and this is matter I am considering having regard to the current economic conditions and the general budgetary position.
98. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if progress has been made on broadening farm partnerships beyond solely dairy partnerships; the options open to those who operate enterprises other than dairy who wish to form a recognised farm partnership; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48379/12]
View answerFarmers, in common with business operators in other sectors, are at liberty to enter into partnership agreements establishing collaborative arrangements for farming or other activities. Such arrangements are governed by the Partnership Act of 1890. In addition, under the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, individual partnerships are given tax reference numbers and a precedent partner is identified for the purposes of assigning responsibility for the preparation and delivery to the Revenue Commissioners of a return of partnership income and gains.
A variety of business models, including collaborative arrangements such as partnership and share farming are available to farmers in all sectors, though not in a manner which requires formal registration of the farm partnership.
However, in the dairy sector, specific formalized arrangements for the registration of dairy production partnerships were established under the Milk Quota Regulations, in the context of providing access to milk quota for partnerships under the Milk Quota Trading Scheme. These regulations will be repealed upon the demise of milk quotas in 2015.
I am supportive of partnership and other collaborative arrangements between farmers which can help to address a variety of issues such as scale, land and capital equipment availability, sharing of skills and rural isolation. Equally, I recognize that there may be cultural and other barriers to formalised collaboration arrangements at farm level in Ireland.
With this in mind, and as a temporary stimulus to assist in the development of the partnership model, I announced in the context of last year’s budget, a stock relief measure intended, subject to EU State Aid approval being obtained, to be available to registered farm partnerships. At present, and for the historical reasons already explained, the only formalised registration vehicle for farm partnerships is that available under the Milk Quota Regulations.
Against the general background described above, I am at present considering the question of establishing a formalised mechanism for recognizing farm partnerships, and in that context seeking to identify a basis in primary legislation for such registration. While deliberations on this matter have not yet concluded, I expect to be in a position to make a decision on the matter in the near future.
99. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the cost of a new suckler cow welfare scheme for 2013 based on the same rates of payment that currently operate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48252/12]
View answer104. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of farmers in the current suckler cow welfare scheme that have herds of 10 or less cows, of between 20 and 11 cows, of between 30 and 21 cows and between 40 and 31 cows and of between 60 and 41 cows and greater than 60 cows; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48254/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 99 and 104 together.
The Suckler Cow Welfare Scheme is a five-year Scheme for beef animals born during the period, which commenced on 1 January 2008 and will end on 31 December 2012. The primary objectives of the Scheme was to improve welfare standards in the sector and to assist in the establishment of a breeding database from which suckler farmers could identify the best breeding stock for their particular requirements.
The tabular statement below illustrates the number of participants in the Suckler Cow Welfare Scheme in a range of herd sizes.
|
Herd size (cows) |
Number of herds |
|
1-10 |
10,471 |
|
11-20 |
11,359 |
|
21-30 |
6,296 |
|
31-40 |
3,157 |
|
41-60 |
2,407 |
|
>60 |
1,177 |
|
Total |
34,867 |
It can be seen from the table that the majority of the Suckler farmers are small holdings with herds of less than 20 animals.
A Value for Money Review on the operation of the Suckler Cow Welfare Scheme was undertaken in 2011. This was done in accordance with the Department of Finance Value for Money and Policy Review guidelines. This review found that the Scheme has been successful in meeting its objectives and some of its main findings can be summarised as follows:
- The Scheme has largely met its original objectives in terms of bringing about improvements in animal welfare, collection of breeding data and ultimately achieving improved competitiveness within the Irish beef sector;
- The animal welfare measures have directly contributed to improved prices for weanlings and improved reputation for Irish beef and live exports in key markets while also having a significant attitudinal and behavioural change by suckler farmers with regard to animal welfare;
- Significant improvements have been achieved in the collection and processing of the breeding data submitted under the Scheme;
- The Steering Group believed that the Suckler Scheme succeeded in advancing and improving management and animal husbandry practices on suckler farms but that it was appropriate to assess whether continued public funding was justified.
Part of this audit included surveys of, and presentations by, various interested bodies including the farming organisations and exporters and the conclusions were that the Scheme was extremely beneficial and was a significant contributor to the increased level of live exports in recent years. The future viability of this country’s beef industry depends on our ability to produce the highest quality beef animals using the highest standards of animal welfare and husbandry. Ireland is now well placed to exploit the marketing advantage that this scheme presents when selling beef into the European and further markets.
Payments will continue to be made under this Scheme on 2012 born calves and those born in earlier years at current rates as they become eligible for payment. Any decision in relation to the future will be considered during the forthcoming budgetary process.
100. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the spend to date in 2012 on marine works allocated funding by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48273/12]
View answerMy Department is responsible for the administration of the Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Capital Development Programme which provides funding for works at the six Fishery Harbour Centres on an annual basis and in addition, where exchequer funds allow, funding is made available to Local Authority owned piers and harbours.
A budget of €6 million was allocated to the 2012 Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme. The projects approved under the programme are in respect of works at the six Fishery Harbour Centres, located at Howth, Killybegs, Ros an Mhíl, Dingle, Castletownbere and Dunmore East as well as several Local Authority owned piers and harbours.
It is anticipated that the full budget for this programme will be expended by year end.
101. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on whether the agri-food sector here and throughout the EU will receive the required ongoing support through the common agricultural policy with particular reference to the need to maximise food production potential here and throughout the EU; if he expects this country's position as a major food producer to be enhanced in the course of such negotiations with specific reference to maximising job opportunities and contributing to economic recovery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47687/12]
View answerThe outcome of negotiations on reform of the Common Agricultural policy will set the context and part of the policy framework for the future development of the agri-food sector in Ireland and across the EU. In that connection, I welcome the three key principles underpinning the EU Commission’s proposals for reform of the CAP which are to preserve food production potential in the EU, to ensure sustainable management of natural resources and to maintain viable rural areas. I am satisfied that adherence to these principles will ensure the viability and future development of the food industry in Ireland and throughout Europe.
My own view is that food security in the European Union is the essence of what the new Common Agricultural Policy is about. Growing populations and increasing demand for protein-based foods, which is what we predominantly produce in Ireland through the dairy and meat industries, present a significant opportunity not only to continue, as the EU has been, to promote a sustainable way of producing food from an environmental and climate point of view but also to produce greater volumes of food. I will continue to make the case for sustainable intensification of food production, which is what agriculture should be all about.
Of course, a strong CAP is contingent on securing an adequate budget to deliver the objectives of that policy. In this regard, the negotiations to determine the budget for the CAP from 2014 to 2020 are part of wider negotiations that will decide the multiannual financial framework, or MFF, for the EU budget for the period from 2014 to 2020. These negotiations are being conducted under the auspices of the EU General Affairs Council, attended by the Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. Ultimately decisions on the MFF will be taken by EU Heads of State and Government. A special meeting of the European Council has been scheduled for November 2012 for this purpose.
The overriding national priority is to safeguard CAP funding to the maximum extent possible, having regard to the reality that CAP accounts for over 80% of Ireland’s total receipts of EU funding, equivalent to about €12 billion over the 2007-2013 period. We will continue to strongly defend our proposed allocation in the negotiations. This is a whole of Government position.
102. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he intends publishing a policy on the development of the inshore fishing industry for coastal and island communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48270/12]
View answerI am conscious of the economic potential of the inshore fisheries sector to grow and make an increased contribution to employment and economic growth in peripheral coastal and island communities. Already, many shellfish species make a valuable contribution to our exports, either through direct export or as essential raw material for added-value seafood products. Sustainably managed, there is much potential to grow landings in these fisheries.
However, in light of the judgment of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) against Ireland concerning non-compliance with the EU Habitats and Birds Directives, my overriding policy priority for the inshore sector must be to bring all inshore fisheries, and aquaculture, in Natura 2000 sites into full compliance with those Directives. Any wider policy initiatives for the inshore sector must take account of this policy priority and the associated legal constraints these Directives and the ECJ judgement impose in terms of putting in place new licensing or management arrangements for inshore stocks within or adjacent to Natura 2000 sites, in advance of the completion of the necessary environmental assessments under article 6 of the Habitats Directive.
My Department continues to work closely with BIM, the Marine Institute and the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority and other stakeholders to manage inshore fisheries generally and measures are implemented within the constraints of the ECJ judgement to protect the stock.
Much of our coastline is affected by the designation of many bays and estuaries as Special Areas of Conservation under the Habitats Directive or Special Protection Areas under the Birds Directive, collectively known as Natura 2000 sites. Article 6 of the Habitats Directive applies to all such sites and serves to prevent the introduction of plans or policies for fisheries in those sites which would involve licensing of fishermen or certain other planned management arrangements for those sites, unless an environmental assessment under that Directive has first been conducted and has discounted any significant impact on the protected habitat or species. The completion of Habitats Directive assessments for the in excess of 90 sites around our coastline is a significant undertaking that must be conducted in a systematic manner, informed by detailed scientific surveys and impact assessments on a site by site basis.
My Department has been engaged in a major multi annual project to deliver full compliance with the Directives for all marine Natura 2000 sites and is working closely with its agencies and the National Parks and Wildlife Service on this task. A substantial body of scientific data and analysis has been generated over the past number of years to inform the assessments. The project is now focused on the roll-out of the bay by bay environmental assessments required under the Directives and implementation of any consequent management measures arising.
Three comprehensive assessments have been completed, in respect of Castlemaine Harbour County Kerry, Dundalk Bay County Louth and Roaring Water Bay County Cork. Work is at an advanced stage in respect of Lough Swilly County Donegal and Clew Bay County Mayo, among others, and this process will continue throughout 2012 and into next year in respect of these and other sites.
103. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his policy in relation to the less severely handicapped areas under the proposed new common agricultural policy; if he will confirm that if these areas were to be reduced it would mean a loss of finance to Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48248/12]
View answerThe future system of payments to farmers in disadvantaged areas forms part of the wider negotiations on the reform of the common agricultural policy. Under the Commission’s proposal, Less Favoured Areas – known as Disadvantaged Areas in Ireland – will become known as Areas facing natural or specific constraints, or ANCs. Designation of the ANC areas is proposed to be determined by 8 soil and climatic criteria. These are grouped under four headings of climate, climate and soil together, soil and terrain. They include low temperature, dryness, excess soil moisture, limited soil drainage, unfavourable texture and stoniness, shallow rooting depth, poor chemical properties and slope.
This is a very important issue for Ireland as the total area designated as disadvantaged is almost 75% of Ireland’s total land area. From an economic perspective the Less Favoured Areas Scheme is particularly significant, contributing to the support of in excess of 100,000 Irish farm families, whose ability to farm is restricted by the physical environment, in particular, the impact of the prevailing wet cold climatic conditions in Ireland.
At EU level, in overall terms, I consider that the Commission’s proposals of using bio-physical criteria as laudable, but I believe there is a need to broaden the scope of the proposed criteria and to give Member States more flexibility in designating areas. My Department has conducted extensive analysis of the impact of using the eight criteria. The results show that whilst there is not a major shift in the total area designated in Ireland there is a considerable change within the totality - areas not previously designated now included with other designated area excluded, and in some cases the designation is very difficult to justify. I can assure the Deputy, however, that I am seeking additional flexibility in the designation process and in the timeline for implementation of any changes to ensure that there are no abrupt or significant alterations to the conditions of the current scheme.
Of course the level of these payments in Ireland will also be informed by the decisions taken on the next multi-annual financial framework for the EU budget. The funding for the second pillar of the CAP, which includes provision for these payments, falls to be decided by Heads of State and Government as part of the MFF negotiations. A special meeting of the European Council is scheduled for 22 and 23 November for this purpose.
105. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the total allocation to Ireland under the rural development programme 2007 to 2013 broken down measure by measure; the expenditure to date; his views on whether the full allocation will be spent under each measure; the implications for the programme and the common agricultural policy in Ireland if any measure fails to spend its allocation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48260/12]
View answerSince the launch of the Rural Development Programme 2007 - 2013 [RDP] expenditure under the programme to 15 October 2012 amounts to €3.5bn. This represents close on 73% of the total value of the Programme which is €4.8bn. Axes 1 and 2 of the Rural Development Programme are administered by my Department while Axes 3 and 4 are delivered by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. A broadband measure comes under the remit of the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. Details of the allocation and expenditure per measure under the RDP up to 15 October 2012 are set out in the table below. This table does not include funds already committed but not as yet claimed.
The programme, like all national spending, is subject to ongoing budgetary constraints but is configured to maximise all available EU funding. Ireland’s draw down rate under the Programme has been among the highest of EU Member States over the lifetime of the current Programme. As is the case with the Programmes of other Member States, expenditure has not been entirely consistent across the measures and this has been due both to the more long term nature of some of the measures and to the prevailing economic situation. Spending under a number of measures may continue until the end of 2015 and this will provide considerable scope to allow all measures to spend up to their full allocation.
Full draw down of available EU funds is a major priority. Any review of expenditure under the programme must take account of the Axis balance which requires spending over the Axes in the proportions of 10:80:10 under the RDP. Adjustments have already been made to the RDP Financial Plan and will continue to be made to the end of the Programme in order to achieve the fullest possible draw down of available funds.
|
Axis / Measure |
Measure - Code |
RDP - Allocation - €m |
Expenditure 2007 – 15 October 2012 - €m |
|
AXIS 1 – COMPETITIVENESS |
- |
- |
- |
|
Vocational training (REPS) |
111 |
5.7 |
6.6 |
|
Installation aid |
112 |
12.3 |
12.9 |
|
Early retirement |
113 |
219.2 |
208.6 |
|
Farm Modernisation |
121 |
154.6 |
74.0 |
|
TOTAL AXIS 1 |
391.8 |
302.1 |
Axis 2 – Environment and Land Management
|
Axis / Measure |
Measure - Code |
RDP - Allocation - €m |
Expenditure 2007 – 15 October 2012 - €m |
|
Less Favoured Areas |
212 |
1,617.9 |
1,255.6 |
|
Natura 2000 |
213 |
528.5 |
69.2 |
|
Agri-environment |
214 |
1922.5 |
1,784.4 |
|
TOTAL AXIS 2 |
4,068.9 |
3,073.2 |
Axis 3
|
Axis / Measure |
Measure - Code |
RDP - Allocation - €m |
Expenditure 2007 – 15 October 2012 - €m |
|
Broadband |
321 |
17.8 |
0 |
|
TOTAL AXIS 3 |
17.8 |
0 |
Axis 4
|
Axis / Measure |
Measure - Code |
RDP - Allocation - €m |
Expenditure 2007 – 15 October 2012 - €m |
|
Competitiveness – under Measure 123 for Food Projects. |
411 |
5.0 |
0 |
|
Implementing Local Development Strategies – Quality of Life |
413 |
265.5 |
95.3 |
|
Co-operation Projects |
421 |
7.8 |
1.5 |
|
Running of LAGS |
431 |
62.5 |
46.5 |
|
TOTAL AXIS 4 |
340.8 |
143.3 |
Axis 5 – Technical Assistance
|
Axis / Measure |
Measure - Code |
RDP - Allocation - €m |
Expenditure 2007 – 15 October 2012 - €m |
|
Technical Assistance |
6.0 |
1.2 |
|
|
OVERALL RDP |
4,825.3 |
3,519.8 |
106. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Michael P. Kitt den Aire Talmhaíochta, Bia agus Mara cén uair a aontaíodh an plean teanga reatha atá ag a Roinn leis an Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta; cén uair a bheidh plean nua le réiteach bunaithe ar fhorálacha Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [48269/12]
View answerSeoladh Scéim Ghaeilge mo Roinne i mí na Nollag 2006. Tá plean nua á ullmhú lena chur i bhfeidhm in 2013.
107. Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the effect the bad weather of 2012 has had on the potato and horticultural industry; the steps he proposes to take to assist the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48276/12]
View answer2012 was a very difficult year for the production of potato and horticultural crops. The very wet weather during the summer months led to significantly reduced yields and poorer quality. The effects of this will continue through into 2013. The poor weather also led to higher disease pressures and higher costs.
In relation to vegetables, there were also negative impacts on the planting of certain crops.
The lower yields were offset to some extent by higher prices as the wet weather also affected producers across Western Europe. This was particularly so in the case of potatoes where prices have been more than double those of 2011.
Assistance for the industry
Unfortunately, the EU Commission does not provide funding to compensate for losses that arise due to the adverse weather conditions experienced this summer and due to the financial crisis the Irish Exchequer is not in a position to assist either.
However my Department expects to provide over €3m in grant aid directly to horticultural growers this year to assist development of the industry under the Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector. This competitive grant aid scheme, which covers all areas of the horticultural industry, is 100% State funded under the National Development Plan (2007-2013).
My Department and the other State agencies will continue to work with potato growers and the horticultural industry to ensure the long-term viability of both sectors.
108. Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views regarding the impact that the end of the milk quota system in 2014 may have on Ireland's climate policy should the dairy industry expand significantly and the follow on effect of an increase in emissions; the studies being undertaken in his Department to examine same; if he will be making an input into the forthcoming Climate Change Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47408/12]
View answerBoth the Irish dairy sector and market analysts have regarded the milk quota regime as a brake on the potential of the Irish dairy sector to respond positively to opportunities in the market.
With the abolition of milk quotas on the 1st of April 2015, I expect the Irish dairy sector to expand significantly in the years ahead, with output driven by global demand and with significant potential for associated job creation. The Food Harvest 2020 (FH2020) report set out an ambitious target for a 50% increase in milk production by 2020, compared to a 2007-2009 reference period.
The roots of this potential for increased production lie in the unrivalled natural advantage Ireland possesses in the form of a grass-based production system. This allows us to produce dairy products of the highest quality in an environmentally friendly manner and on a highly cost efficient basis, to meet global demand which is growing as a result of increasing population and purchasing power in developing economies.
The low carbon intensity of the Irish dairy sector is recognised by a number of important international reports which show Ireland to be among the most carbon efficient food producers in the world.
In 2011, an EU Commission Joint Research Centre study found Irish milk, pork and poultry products to have the lowest carbon footprint in the EU on a per unit of production basis. By factoring in future cost beneficial mitigation measures relative to increased production, the projected rise in agricultural output will represent a further improvement in the already efficient carbon intensity of agricultural production on a per unit basis.
In addition, a 2010 FAO report indicates that the grass based livestock production systems that form the cornerstone of Irish agriculture are already highly carbon-efficient and are associated with a low carbon footprint for livestock produce.
In April 2012, as part of the National Climate Policy Development Consultation, Teagasc published its Marginal Abatement Cost Curve for Irish Agriculture analysis. The report was prepared by Teagasc’s working group on greenhouse gas emissions which integrates the extensive and diverse range of organisational expertise in research and practice associated with greenhouse gases. The analysis was conducted within the context of FH2020, which assumes that the 50% growth in the dairy sector will be achieved by a combination of 25% growth in cow numbers and 25% increase in yield.
Without mitigation, under a FH2020 scenario, the historical downward trend in agricultural greehhouse gas emissions is projected to reverse due to the growth in economic activity in this sector. In the absence of abatement measures, this report estimates that, by 2020, emissions are projected to increase by approximately 7% compared to the 2010 level. This increase is not substantial in comparison to the projected rise in agricultural output, due to ongoing gains in production efficiency and reductions in the carbon-footprint (greenhouse gas emissions per unit produced) of agricultural produce. Therefore, these figures would still represent a further improvement in the already efficient carbon intensity of Irish agricultural production.
However, it is estimated that mitigation measures have the potential to achieve reductions in reported agricultural emissions of 5.5% relative to the FH2020 reference scenario in 2020. Notwithstanding the planned increase in production, this would represent a 4.5% reduction compared to the reported agricultural emissions in 2005, which is the EU Effort Sharing reference year. These measures would include activities such as extended grazing, improved breeding index and efficient use of nitrogen.
It is important to note that a Marginal Abatement Cost Curve cannot remain static, nor should it be interpreted as definitive. This is because the potential for greenhouse gas abatement, as well as the associated costs and benefits, are likely to change over time as ongoing research programmes deliver new mitigation measures, or as socio-economic or agronomic conditions evolve. Therefore, the Teagasc report should be interpreted as the first outcome of an iterative process. Developments in the science of greenhouse gas abatement and in the market conditions faced by Irish agriculture will continue to shape analysis into the future.
In this context the Department will continue to support research and innovation to underpin the sustainable growth of the agri-food sector. The Greenhouse Gas Initiative for Ireland, a research network funded recently under my Department’s Stimulus Programme, is particularly relevant in this regard.
In November 2011 my Department also invited proposals from independent external consultants to undertake an analysis and report on the likely environmental impacts of the achievement of the Food Harvest 2020 targets. Consultants were appointed in April 2012 and a final report is expected in early 2013. The possible impact on greenhouse gas levels is one of the areas under examination as part of the analysis.
As regards the forthcoming Climate Change Bill I will, of course, be working closely with my colleague Minister Hogan and others in formulating this important legislation, taking into account all of the available data.
109. Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the action he is taking to prevent the disease Chalara Fraxinea fungus affecting ash trees here; if he will confirm the total amount of ash imported each year; the inspections his Department carry out at the port of entry as prevention measurements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47232/12]
View answerThe disease Chalara fraxinea or ash dieback poses a very real threat to ash trees throughout Ireland and indeed to those industries which rely on that species for their business - most notably hurley manufacture. A total of 3% of the national forest estate is under ash and 10% of all new planting is currently made up of this important native species. The disease itself is relatively new and is caused by the fungal pathogen Chalara fraxinea which was first described in 2006. The precise origin of the disease remains uncertain and its biology is not yet fully understood. It has spread rapidly across much of Europe, with the majority of European countries where ash is present now reporting dieback.
Ash plants and ash wood with bark imported from countries where the disease is known to occur represents the most likely source of infection in Ireland. Approximately 200,000 ash plants and over 1000 cubic metres of round wood ash for hurley manufacture are imported per annum. Firewood data is not currently broken down by on a species by species basis.
The Department has been actively monitoring for occurrences of this disease since 2008 by carrying out site surveys to establish the status of Chalara fraxinea in the country and by carrying out examinations of ash imports at ports, importers premises, nurseries and planting sites. Since 2008 suspect samples have been sent for laboratory analysis but up to recently all results were negative. Last month, a suspect case of Chalara fraxinea was identified in Co. Leitrim which, following molecular testing was confirmed on the 12th October as Ireland’s first instance of the disease. The site itself which was established in 2009, and was planted using material from a consignment of saplings imported from continental Europe. Some 31,000 individual ash trees made up this consignment which was used in 11 separate sites throughout the country. Ash trees planted on the 11 sites in question have been cleared and destroyed. This involved the removal and burning of some 31,000 trees from the imported consignment (and several thousand adjoining trees) which was carried out rapidly with the cooperation of forest owners and contractors. Results from laboratory analysis received yesterday (5th November) confirm that while most of this consignment distributed to other sites had no symptoms, in four of the sites the disease was present on a very small number of trees. This confirms the Department’s use of a precautionary approach in destroying the entire consignment in all 11 sites.
I have introduced legislation banning the import of ash plants from countries or parts of countries known to have the disease. This Statutory Instrument came into effect from the 26th October 2012 and in Northern Ireland equivalent measures were also simultaneously introduced. Additional legislative measures are also being introduced today in relation to wood in co-operation with the authorities in Northern Ireland.
110. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide an update on the proposed reorganisation of Teagasc; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47633/12]
View answerTeagasc has statutory responsibility to provide education, advisory and research services to the agriculture sector. Programmes and services are developed with clients and partners overseen by an Authority that is representative of the main agriculture stakeholder groups. It is a matter for Teagasc to prioritise activities in the delivery of services and to allocate resources in accordance with these priorities. Ministerial responsibility is confined to matters of policy in accordance with the Act and the Minister does not interfere in the day to day operations of Teagasc.
In 2009, Teagasc commenced a major organisational Change Programme to improve efficiencies, streamline services and promote greater integration across the organisation. The Programme involves the disposal of assets, a significant reduction in the number of research and advisory locations, reduction in staff numbers and redeployment of staff. Implementation of the programme is an operational matter for Teagasc.
It has resulted in a slimmed down senior management structure and a new programme structure based around four integrated operational programmes. The network of Teagasc offices around the country is being streamlined from 91 to 51 with 38 offices closed to date. Transfer of staff and activities from Kinsealy Research Centre to Ashtown is also being progressed. There has been significant progress in reducing staff numbers with over 380 permanent and temporary posts cut since 2008 as part of the Government initiative to create a smaller, more integrated public service. As part of this initiative, Teagasc successfully implemented a voluntary early retirement programme in 2011 in which 83 staff exited the organisation. The overall cost of servicing pay and pensions in Teagasc fell by €13m since 2008 while other non-pay costs declined by €11m.
These actions have resulted in Teagasc becoming a leaner, more efficient and focused organisation. Teagasc recognise that this process of change must continue and are committed to implementing further reforms in line with the Croke Park Agreement.
111. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Michael P. Kitt den Aire Talmhaíochta, Bia agus Mara cé na socruithe atá déanta aige chun a chinntiú go bhfuil seirbhís trí Ghaeilge ar fáil óna Roinn do lucht labhartha na Gaeilge agus go mór mór do phobal na Gaeltachta; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [48268/12]
View answerCuireann mo Roinnse seirbhísí i nGaeilge ar fáil i gcónaí i gceantair Ghaeltachta. Is féidir le duine ar bith ar mian leis dul i mbun gnó leis an Roinn i nGaeilge é sin a dhéanamh ach iarratas a dhéanamh. Is i nGaeilge a dhéanann an fhoireann agus custaiméirí i gceantair Ghaeltachta roinnt dá ngnó, nó a gcuid gnó go léir, ar bhun neamhfhoirmiúil. Tá saoráidí fáiltithe i nGaeilge curtha ar bun in oifigí na Roinne nuair is féidir é, do chustaiméirí ar mian leo a gcuid gnó a dhéanamh trí Ghaeilge, go háirithe i gceantair Ghaeltachta. Chomh maith leis sin, foilsítear roinnt de phríomhfhoilseacháin na Roinne i mBéarla agus i nGaeilge, agus bunaíodh seoladh ríomhphoist Gaeilge tiomanta, (aonadnagaeilge@agriculture.gov.ie ) do chustaiméirí a dteastaíonn sé uathu. Tá leagan Gaeilge de láithreán gréasáin na Roinne ar fáil freisin, ar a bhfuil eolas faoi na príomhscéimeanna agus na príomh-sheirbhísí a fheidhmíonn an Roinn.
112. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the proposals that have been published by the EU Commission in relation to pillar 2 of the common agricultural policy; if proposals have not been published the dates on which he expects to publish same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48256/12]
View answerThe Commission published its proposals for pillar 2 of the Common Agricultural Policy in October of last year as part of a package of seven legislative proposals for reform of the CAP after 2013. These proposals are linked to the EU 2020 Strategy and have three objectives of competitiveness, sustainable management of natural resources and wider rural economy, as under the current round. These objectives are to be met through 6 priorities of knowledge transfer, competitiveness, food chain organisation and risk management, preserving ecosystems, promoting resource efficiency and low carbon economy and realising jobs potential and development of rural areas.
Many of the proposed measures are similar to those in the current round. However there are new measures proposed for farm and business development, aimed at young farmers and small businesses and for cooperation, aimed at farm partnership type arrangements. Other new options include support for producer groups, organic farming and insurance premia and mutual funds to compensate farmers. Less Favoured Areas will become known as areas facing natural or other specific constraints and significant changes are proposed to this measure.
The axis balance provisions in the current programme are no longer a requirement and former Axis 3 measures now comprise one measure for basic services and village renewal in rural areas
A single co funding rate of 50% is envisaged but certain measures relating to knowledge transfer, producer groups, co operation and young farmers set up may be co funded at the rate of 80%. A specific provision is made for Leader funding (at least 5%) and Agri-Environment-Climate, Organic farming and Areas of Natural Constraint (at least 25%). A 100% co funding rate is envisaged for innovation projects.
The draft regulation proposes that funds will be distributed between Member States on the basis of objective criteria and past performance. However, the Commission has yet to publish concrete proposals on distribution or to provide full details of the criteria and weightings it is planning to use.
Decisions on funding and co-financing levels for pillar 2 will be taken by Heads of State and Government as part of the multiannual financial framework negotiations for the next EU budget and a special meeting of the European Council has been scheduled for 22/23 November to finalise this.
I have serious concerns that the envisaged use of a combination of past performance and objective criteria to determine distribution of Pillar 2 funds will reduce our allocation. I believe an objective criteria approach cannot provide a solution that will address the concerns of all Member States, and should be abandoned. Allocation of Pillar 2 funds should instead be based on past performance only, as measured over the entire 2007-2013 rural development programming period. Any adjustment beyond that should use the same methodology as the Commission has proposed for Pillar 1.
I am also pressing for Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 funds to be considered together, and for the pragmatic approach being employed for direct payments to be used for rural development too. The latter would be consistent with the complementary nature of the two pillars within one common agricultural policy.
In addition, I believe that no Member State with below-average Pillar 2 payments per hectare should lose in any redistribution, and no Member State should lose under both pillars. Ireland receives lower than average payments per hectare for direct payment and rural development funds combined, and I therefore see no justification for any reduction.
In any event, it is imperative that we see proposals soon from the Commission on Pillar 2 distribution. It is unrealistic to expect Member States to sign up to proposals for the allocation of Pillar 1 funds without knowing the Commission’s intentions on the second pillar.
113. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when processing will commence of all outstanding applications under the dairy equipment scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48255/12]
View answerThe Dairy Equipment Scheme was introduced by my Department on 4 March 2011 in order to provide grant-aid for the purchase of milking machines and milk cooling equipment. The available grant-aid is 40% up to a maximum eligible investment ceiling of €40,000 for milking machines and €25,000 for cooling equipment. Special incentives are provided for certain Milk Production Partnerships. The indicative allocation for the Scheme in Ireland’s Rural Development Programme is €45 million. In view of the high level of demand for grant-aid under the Scheme, I subsequently increased this amount to €49 million by way of the transfer of €4 million from the Rainwater Harvesting Scheme. As the financial allocation for the Scheme is limited, a series of tranches is in place in order to ensure that approvals to commence work can issue to farmers at regular intervals. Selection criteria have also been applied in order to determine those applications which will go forward to the approval process as the Scheme has been over-subscribed since its introduction.
The tranche which closed at end-July 2012 was over-subscribed and the processing of applications involved the detailed examination of all applications as well as the clarification and resolution of a large number of queries and other issues in correspondence with the applicants. This process is nearing completion and I expect that approvals will issue shortly. In addition, my Department has already commenced work on the applications received during the tranche which closed at end-October 2012. My aim is to ensure that approvals under both tranches will issue as quickly as possible.
114. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to replace the system of criminal sanctions for minor fisheries' offences with a system of administrative sanction to bring Ireland into line with other European jurisdictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47699/12]
View answer130. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the fact that Ireland is the only country in Europe in which one is criminalised for a fishing offence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47698/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 114 and 130 together.
The Programme for Government committed to replacing the criminal sanctions system for minor fisheries offences with administrative sanction system to bring Ireland into line with other European jurisdictions.
I sought the advice of the Attorney General on the matter. The Attorney General has responded with a detailed advice on the issue which I am currently examining. The advice highlights the difficulties in relation to the Constitution and in relation to the laws of the European Community relevant to the question of implementing a system of administrative sanctions for fisheries.
There are many significant differences between the legal systems in Ireland and that of other EU Member States. Ireland’s constitutional and legal position provides certain basic rights which must be respected within our system of justice.
Furthermore, European Union legislation requires that penalties for fisheries offences must be “effective, proportionate and dissuasive ”. That is, they must act as a deterrent and they must also ensure that there is no benefit gained by infringing the rules.
Given the nature of the penalties involved, there is a general requirement under the Constitution that alleged breaches of fisheries control regulations must be tried in a court of law. I am continuing to actively examine the issue in the context of the Attorney General’s advice in relation to the Programme for Government commitment.
115. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if as part of the renegotiation of the common fisheries policy he has raised the issue of the allocation of the fishing catch allocated to Ireland, approximately 4% in view if the fact that Ireland owns 18% of the fish resource of the EU; the response from the EU; if he intends pursuing this national interest; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48264/12]
View answerThe main potential benefit of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) system for Irish fishermen is that it provides a system which aspires to the structured and sustainable management of international fishing activity in each of the key areas of interest to Irish fishermen. In addition, it provides stable arrangements for access to the large EU seafood market for the large volume of Irish seafood products which the Irish fishing industry exports to EU markets. There has been traditional dissatisfaction in Ireland with the share of the relevant total allowable catches which Ireland secured at the outset of the CFP.
The share Ireland received of the quotas available at the outset was determined on a system of relative stability, based on historical fishing patterns in the confines of set management areas. That system has continued since and was not changed in the CFP Reform’s of 1992 or 2002. There is no support in the Council for a change in the traditional quota allocations in the current Reform and the EU Commission has not proposed any changes.
However, under CFP arrangements agreed in 1976 a system of so called “Hague Preferences” was put in place, under which Ireland gets an enhanced share of certain key quotas on which we were traditionally dependant, if the share falls below certain set levels. The CFP Reform proposals envisage retaining this system in the way that it has operated previously and the retention of this arrangement is a key priority for me.
Securing enhanced fish quotas for Ireland and enhanced fish landings into Ireland however remains as an objective, but must I believe be delivered within the structures in place. For example, over the last two years Ireland has secured, by working within the system, a very significant two thirds share of the new and very large Boarfish Fishery. This fishery which will permit Ireland to catch 56,666 tonnes this year holds the potential to build a large new processing industry in Ireland, developing human consumption seafood products for exports. On my trade mission to China earlier this year I promoted the products from this new fishery to the large Chinese seafood market and Irish processors have already sent over 12 tonnes of boarfish as a commercial trial to a seafood processor in Qingdao. Similarly, on foot of initiatives taken by the Irish pelagic processing industry, this year we saw very large levels of landings of blue whiting into Killybegs for processing from Norwegian vessels. This gave a substantial boost for the Irish Seafood Processing industry generating increased employment in the North West.
The other way of increasing Irish fish catches and landings into Ireland is by growing the stocks on which we are dependant and which are proximate to Ireland. By growing stocks we increase our permitted volumes of landings even within a fixed sharing arrangement. The Quota increases secured in this way in the Celtic Sea this year are clear evidence of the gains that can be secured through this approach. There is much in the CFP Reform, such as long term management of stocks, reducing and eliminating discards and rebuilding stocks to Maximum Sustainable Yield, which holds the potential to substantially increase catches by Irish fishermen in the short and medium term.
One aspect of the CFP Reform Proposals, which I vehemently opposed from the outset, was the proposed system of mandatory transferable fishing concessions, which would have privatised the National Fish Quotas and posed real dangers to Ireland's fishing and processing industries and would have threatened the economic survival of our coastal communities. As part of the intensively negotiated General Approach which was agreed at June Fisheries Council we saw the removal of the mandatory element of this proposal where by each member state will be allowed to manage their fish quotas to take account of their own individual circumstances. We are awaiting the EU Parliament’s position on the reform, including in relation to its approach to dealing with quota allocations and individual transferable concessions.
I will prioritise securing final agreement between the EU Fisheries Council and the EU Parliament on the CFP during the Irish Presidency during the first half of 2013.
116. Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has commissioned a study on the impact that the end of the sugar beet quota system in 2015 may have on our climate policy should the industry be re-established here; the potential it has to provide a domestic biofuel crop; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47407/12]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that in 2011 I met with two separate groups which had conducted feasibility studies, into the possibility of establishing a new sugar/bioethanol facility in the country. At both meetings, I stated that any venture to develop a combined sugar/bioethanol production facility would have to be a commercial proposition, financed in total by investors and interested parties and make sound economic sense in order to be viable. I also further suggested to both groups, the desirability of there being only one single proposition in play, as both studies had indicated a potential for only one such viable project and both groups had appeared to accept the reasonableness of this position at the time.
Only recently, I re-stated that any business plan for a new venture in this area, would need to be competitive and that it would justify the very substantial investment to build a new facility.
I have strongly supported the current EU Commission’s proposal to completely abolish sugar quotas from 30 September 2015, as part of the ongoing CAP reform discussions. At each meeting of the EU Council of Agriculture Ministers since October 2011, which has addressed this issue, I have intervened to fully support the Commission proposals for quota abolition. I also raised the issue with EU Agriculture Commissioner, Ciolos during his visit to Ireland in January 2012 and at the time I informed him of the growing momentum here for the revival of the sugar industry.
I also advised the Commissioner that while Ireland supports full quota abolition in 2015, if the regime were to continue beyond that date, Ireland does not want to be deprived, in the interim period of the option to recommence production. I am also aware of a significant number of Member States which wish to see the current sugar quota regime extended to 2017 or 2018. In addition, the European Parliament have clearly stated that they want the regime extended to 2020, so I expect that in the eventual conclusion to these complex reform negotiations, in which the sugar question is but one significant element, a compromise outcome will be agreed. However, I will endeavour to ensure that if the sugar quota regime does get extended beyond 2015, Ireland will be allowed to access a sufficient quota amount to ensure a viable sugar industry here.
I am most actively involved in these negotiations between Member States, on all aspects of the CAP Reform Proposals, including those concerning the EU sugar regime. During the first half of 2013, Ireland will hold the Presidency of the EU and I will assume the role of Chairman of the Council of Agriculture Ministers during that 6 month period. Based on current progress and developments in these negotiations, I believe that agreement on the CAP Reform measures can be concluded in the Council, including an outcome on the future of the EU sugar quota regime, during our Presidency period.
Given the uncertainty outlined above, my Department has not carried out nor commissioned a study on the impact the end of the sugar beet quota system in 2015 may have on our climate policy should the industry be re-established here. However, further consideration may be given to this issue in light of future developments at European level and when a greater degree of certainty is established with regard to the potential development of a new sugar/bioethanol facility in Ireland.
With regard to the potential of sugar beet as a biofuel crop, establishing an ethanol plant in Ireland which uses sugar beet as a raw material in the production of ethanol would be a matter in the first instance for commercial decision by interested parties. Such a development would not be dependent on sugar quota becoming available. Sugar beet could be grown for such an enterprise, if regarded as commercially viable, in the same way that a quantity of sugar beet has always been grown in this country for fodder purposes.
The Deputy may also be aware that the European Commission published a proposal on 17th October 2012, drawn up by DGs Climate Action and Energy, that seeks to introduce a 5% ceiling on the use of biofuels derived from sugar, cereals and rapeseed as part of the count towards the EU’s 10% target for renewable energy in the transport sector by 2020. The proposal seeks to shift the focus away from 1st generation biofuels and encourage future investment in advanced biofuels derived from municipal waste and agricultural residues that do not compete directly with food and feed crops. The Commission aims at protecting existing investment until 2020, but commits to cut all public subsidies for biofuels produced from crop-based biofuels once the current legislation expires in 2020.
117. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his policy in relation to ensuring an adequate supply of timber to the timber processing sector here; his policy for retaining employment in this sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48267/12]
View answerThe Government is committed to developing and managing Ireland’s forestry resource in a manner which will ensure sustainable output and growth into the future. The forestry and forest products sector employs nearly 12,000 people in Ireland and generates approximately €2.2 billion in annual output. Our approach to developing the sector is reflected in the budget allocation for 2012 of almost €112 million which is sufficient for the planting of close to 7,000 hectares of new forest plantations. Provision was also made in this budget for the building of in excess of 100 kilometres of forest roads to facilitate the extraction and supply of timber to the processing sector and other markets.
Total roundwood harvest during 2011 was approximately 2.7 million cubic metres. The All Ireland Roundwood Production Forecast , published by my Department in 2011, estimates that annual net realisable roundwood volume production for the island of Ireland will increase to 6.17 million cubic metres by 2020. Of this, approximately 2.5 million cubic metres (c. 40%) is expected to come from private sector forests. These figures and particularly the increase in private timber production are excellent indictors for future growth in our forestry sector.
Furthermore in terms of downstream support for the industry, Teagasc has, to date, supported the establishment of 25 Farm Forest Producer Groups around the country to assist private forest owners in the management of the forests and the mobilisation of timber to the processing sector. In addition, the COFORD Council has convened a group comprising sawmillers, Coillte and private growers to examine wood mobilisation issues in the sector and this group will report in 2013.
Taken together, I believe that these policies, initiatives and funding will help ensure the continued supply of raw material to, and consequent retention of employment in, this important sector.
118. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the dividend paid by Coillte Teoranta to the State in each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48266/12]
View answerThe details of the dividends paid by Coillte in each of the past five years and to date this year are as outlined below.
|
Year |
Dividend Paid |
Type of dividend and year to which it related |
|
2007 |
- |
- |
|
2008 |
€2,599,716 |
Interim dividend in respect of 2008. Received December 2008 |
|
2009 |
- |
- |
|
2010 |
- |
- |
|
2011 |
€10,000,000 |
Interim dividend in respect of 2011. Received September 2011 |
|
2012 |
- |
Discussions regarding dividend for 2012 are not concluded |
119. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of farmers that were penalised under the single farm payment scheme and disadvantaged area scheme in 2011; the total financial amount of the penalties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48257/12]
View answerAs it has not been possible to collate the data sought by the Deputy within the available timescale, I am arranging for it to be forwarded directly as soon as it is available.
120. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he expects the agri-food sector here to maximise the potential of Food Harvest 2020; if any initiatives are anticipated to ensure that adequate funding is made available to the sector in order to meet the challenges and the development costs therewith associated; if he favours a particular strategy in this context; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47688/12]
View answerAs indicated in Milestones for Success 2012 , the second progress report on Food Harvest 2020, the agri-food sector is currently well placed to achieve the key targets set out for 2020 in Food Harvest.
Specifically, working from the baseline figures, by end 2011 the value of both primary output and exports has increased by almost 19% and 10% respectively , vis-a vis the relevant 33% and 42% target increase set for 2020. The CSO also indicate that the value- added element of the sector has increased by 5.6% by end 2010, the latest figure available.
The budget allocations for 2013 are being considered in the context of the gross expenditure ceilings that were allocated to all Departments for the period 2012 -2014 under the Government’s Medium Term Expenditure Framework. The preparations for the 2013 Estimate are currently underway and all budget lines on my Department’s Vote will be examined carefully as part of that process having regard to the expenditure ceilings. My intention is to ensure that the resources available to my Department are managed to provide the optimum benefit to economic activity in the agricultural, food, fisheries and forestry sectors, and to realising the potential which exists for the sectors to contribute to the economic recovery.
121. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline the future timetable of the Our Ocean Wealth policy initiative now that the public consultation period has ended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48424/12]
View answer126. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will report on the recent report Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth - An Integrated Marine Plan for Ireland; if he will explain the way the report's recommendations will impact on the development of marine facilities and tourism including at national fisheries' harbours such as Howth, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47632/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 121 and 126 together.
Following a successful public consultation process, the Government has published an integrated Marine Plan for Ireland entitled ‘Harnessing our Ocean Wealth’ which takes account of the various submissions received in the public consultation process and builds on the ongoing and future work of the various Government Departments involved in this area . The plan sets out a roadmap for the Government’s vision, high level goals and integrated actions across policy, governance and business to enable Ireland’s marine potential to be realised in the coming years. The plan also provides a new momentum for growth in the marine area and involves Departments working together more efficiently and effectively on the diverse issues related to the marine.
It is designed to contribute to getting the environment right for investment and so stimulate the private sector investment which will be crucial to achieving the targets outlined in the plan. As well as driving the potential of our marine economy, the plan will allow us to strike a balance between protecting the marine environment, its species and habitats, and maximising the use of its resources as a source of economic growth.
The plan sets out an overarching target to double the value of Our Ocean Wealth to 2.4 % of GDP by 2030 and moving toward the EU average of 3.5%. The Government has also set a 2020 target of exceeding €5bn in annual turnover. This would represent growth of approximately 50% drawn from a diverse range of marine sectors including marine and coastal tourism, marine commerce, seafood, shipping, oil and gas, renewable energy, marine manufacturing and other marine industries. The growth targets are based on existing government programmes such as my Department’s Food Harvest 2020 in relation to seafood, sector specific projections, for example, Failte Ireland covering Maritime and Coastal Tourism and base levels of marine economic activity as measured in the most comprehensive recent economic report, Ireland’s ocean Economy 2010. Socio- Economic Marine Research Unit in NUI Galway.
A copy of the published plan is available at http://www.ouroceanwealth.ie
Moving to the impact on marine facilities and tourism at the fisheries harbours, my Department has responsibility for the management and development of the six Fishery Harbour Centres, including Howth.
The Fishery Harbour Centres are unique in that they have been set up to provide a dedicated service to the Fishing Industry. It is policy at each Fishery Harbour Centre that priority is always given to the needs of the fishermen and indeed the significant capital investment at the Fishery Harbour Centres has reflected this.
However, in addition to serving the Fishing Industry, they also play an important role in the Irish tourist and marine leisure industry and also provide facilities for the support of passenger and cargo ferries to the islands. There are comprehensive marine leisure facilities at Howth, Dingle and Ros An Mhíl Fishery Harbour Centres which work well alongside the needs of the fishing industry. My Department will continue to take every opportunity to facilitate and promote marine tourism at the Fishery Harbour Centres subject of course to its compatibility with the needs of fishermen and budgetary constraints. The various strands of the Integrated Marine Plan (IMP) which I have outlined are designed to provide a new momentum for growth in this area for harbours such as Howth. The key issue is the development of a strong inter agency approach which will see Departments and stakeholders working together more efficiently and effectively on the diverse issues related to the marine.
122. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he intends to take if the 31 December deadline for the completion of the review of the common fisheries policy will not be met under the Cypriot Presidency; his plans in relation to fisheries policy under the forthcoming Irish Presidency of the European Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48423/12]
View answerThe Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is the fisheries policy of the European Union which was first put in place in 1983 and has been subject to reviews every 10 years. The current CFP is under review and will not be completed during the Cypriot Presidency and accordingly will fall for delivery during the Irish Presidency of the EU.
My overarching goal for the new CFP is for a sustainable, profitable and self reliant industry that protects and enhances the social and economic fabric of rural coastal communities dependent on the seafood sector, while balancing these objectives with the need to deliver a sustainable and eco centred fisheries landscape for future generations.
In the current economic climate, we need a policy that both simplifies and reduces the administrative burden while at the same time strengthens and supports the industry’s capacity to maximise employment in coastal community’s dependant on fishing.
The new CFP will be agreed between the European Parliament and the EU Fisheries Council under the ordinary legislative process (co-decision).
The Council of Fisheries Ministers under the Danish Presidency reached a general approach on the Basic CFP Regulation and the Common Organisation of the Markets (CMO) at the June Fisheries Council (12 June). This is a significant, though informal, step in the process of working towards final agreement with the European Parliament under the ordinary legislative procedure. At the October Fisheries Council, a partial general approach of the Council on the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) was secured.
The European Parliament has completed its first reading of the CMO proposal and is currently conducting its first reading of the basic CFP Regulation and the EMFF proposal. It is expected that these first readings will be completed in the early part of the year.
As it now clear that adoption by 31 December 2012 will not happen, it is my intention to actively endeavour to reach agreement on the Reform package during the Irish presidency in the first half of 2013. I have recently had a series of meetings with Fisheries Ministers, Commissioner Damanaki and with key MEPs to lay the groundwork for achieving agreement.
123. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he is taking to address the incidence of Bovine TB; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47556/12]
View answerThe bovine TB eradication programme includes a comprehensive range of measures, including the mandatory annual testing of all cattle in the national herd, the early removal of reactors, the payment of compensation for cattle removed as reactors, implementation of a range of supplementary tests such as post-derestriction and contiguous tests, a wildlife programme, and the depopulation of infected herds in some cases.
These measures have proven to be relatively effective in recent years as evidenced by the significant reduction in disease levels over the past decade. For example, herd incidence has fallen from 7.5% in 2000 to 4.2% last year and reactor numbers in 2011 were, at 18,500, the lowest recorded since the commencement of the programme in the 1950’s. Reactor numbers and herd incidence have remained at close to 2011 levels this year. I would like to emphasise that the reduction in disease levels has also resulted in considerable savings on disease eradication. For example, expenditure on the TB and Brucellosis eradication schemes has fallen by over €20m or by one third since 2008.
Notwithstanding the difficulty in attributing trends to a single factor, my Department believes that much of the improvement in the TB situation, in recent years, is due the badger removal programme which has been in place for some years now. While the badger culling programme would appear to be very successful here, the long-term objective of my Department is to develop a vaccine for badgers and considerable research has been conducted in collaboration with UCD and the UK Department of Agriculture on the development of such a vaccine. My Department is implementing a number of badger vaccination trials in order to establish the efficacy of the oral vaccine in reducing the level of TB infection in field conditions. If the field trials are successful, badger vaccination will be introduced as part of the eradication programme in due course and this will reduce the need to remove TB infected badgers as TB levels fall in both cattle and badgers. It will be some years, however, before a vaccination programme on a widespread basis is a practicable proposition.
The eradication programme is scientifically based and my Department continues to monitor and review the effectiveness and efficiency of the programme on an on-going basis in light of experience and research. In this context, my Department reviewed the programme last year and concluded that, since the badger constraint was now being effectively addressed, if further progress was to be made, it was necessary to address other potential sources of infection, including from neighbouring herds and the movement of high risk animals. For this reason, my Department introduced a number of changes into the TB programme earlier this year to prevent the spread of disease from infected herds to clear herds and to tighten up on overdue testing. These changes, which were made following a number of consultation meetings with the farming organisations, are designed to protect clear herds from buying in high risk animals and were based on research which demonstrated that there are increased risks attached to the movement of certain animals or being in the vicinity of a TB infected herd.
I am satisfied that these changes have improved the effectiveness of the eradication scheme, particularly by confining the disease to herds where it is originally detected. I am also very pleased with the improvement in the incidence of TB in recent years. Nevertheless, I want to re-affirm that my Department’s ultimate objective is to eradicate the disease and this appears to be a more realistic objective now than at any time in the past. My Department will continue to review and make changes to various elements of the programme as deemed necessary in light of experience.
124. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the costs of a new suckler cow welfare scheme for 2013 based on the same rates of payment that currently operate but limiting the number of cows that a farmer can get paid on to 40 and 30 respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48253/12]
View answerThe Suckler Cow Welfare Scheme is a five-year Scheme for beef animals born during the period, which commenced on 1 January 2008 and will end on 31 December 2012. The primary objectives of the Scheme was to improve welfare standards in the sector and to assist in the establishment of a breeding database from which suckler farmers could identify the best breeding stock for their particular requirements.
The tabular statement below illustrates the number of participants in the Suckler Cow Welfare Scheme in a range of herd sizes.
|
Herd size (cows) |
Number of herds |
|
1-10 |
10,471 |
|
11-20 |
11,359 |
|
21-30 |
6,296 |
|
31-40 |
3,157 |
|
41-60 |
2,407 |
|
>60 |
1,177 |
|
Total |
34,867 |
It can be seen from the table that the majority of the Suckler farmers are small holdings with herds of less than 20 animals. Limiting the size of herd to farmers with less than 40 animals would still see the majority of farmers (more than 31,000) remaining within the scheme.
Any decision in relation to the future of the Scheme will be considered during the forthcoming budgetary process.
