I propose to take Questions Nos. 786 and 793 together.
I have not engaged with local authorities and the EPA on the issue raised by the Deputy, and I believe it is important that we respect the independence and scientific expertise of the EPA. Saying that, I am aware of the challenges for farmers in the area having met with a group in July.
As the Deputy is aware the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is an independent public body established under the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992. The issuing of industrial emissions licences for intensive agricultural establishments falls under the EPA’s remit. Accordingly, the legislation for licensing of intensive pig and poultry facilities is under the remit of the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications. Poultry premises required to apply for said licence are defined as installations where the capacity exceeds 40,000 places with poultry construed in accordance with Regulation 2(2) of the European Communities (Poultry and Hatching Eggs) Regulations 2010 (S.I. No. 564 of 2010).
All other registrations which do not exceed the aforementioned capacity can be made to my Department.
Compliance with environmental regulations is a prerequisite for Irish farmers and food producers, not only to meet legislative requirements, but also to ensure that our quality produce can command a premium in both domestic and export markets.
Under TAMS II, the Department provides funding for the Pig and Poultry Investment Scheme (PPIS) which among other eligible upgrades provides 40% grant funding for a number of eligible investments that can be taken up by poultry farmers and producers, these include energy efficiency measures such as water meters, boilers and solar panels, as well as upgrades to poultry housing such as roof and wall insulation, LED lighting and disease reduction facilities for existing poultry houses. In recognition of the role TAMs can play, earlier this year I announced an increase in the investment ceiling for these sectors from €80,000 to €200,000.