Seán Canney
Question:187. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to introduce a new sheep welfare scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17722/20]
View answerThursday, 23 July 2020
Questions (187)
Written answers
I am very conscious of the important role that the sheep sector plays in the continued growth and development of our agri-food sector, and its valuable contribution to the rural economy.
To date, the existing sheep welfare scheme has delivered supports of €50.3 million to over 21,000 farmers since its inception in 2016.
Under the new programme for Government, we have committed to support the sheep sector under the next CAP and recognise the vital role it plays in food production, demonstrating our commitment to maintaining farm incomes in the sheep sector. We are examining the options to build on schemes such as the Sheep Welfare Scheme, in a way that enhances farm incomes, while contributing to climate change, biodiversity and animal welfare objectives, and recognising their significant contribution to net farm incomes.
My Department is currently engaged in negotiations on the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Regulations at EU level. In parallel, the development of schemes for the new CAP is a key priority for my Department and work is ongoing in this regard.