Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 April 2023
94. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine what action is being taken by his Department in conjunction with the Revenue Commissioners in assisting those importing second-hand agricultural machinery from the UK, given there are now significant delays and disruption being experienced as a result of the UK leaving the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18618/23]
View answerThe UK decision, taken as part of EU-UK negotiations, to be outside of EU single market and customs union has resulted in significant changes to EU-UK trading relationship including introduction of new import control requirements.
Government invested significantly in supporting industry in preparing for these changes but the choices made by UK as part of the Brexit negotiations has inevitably resulted in additional requirements for imports to EU from UK.
As a result of Brexit and in accordance with EU Plant Health legislation, any used or second-hand machinery being imported into Ireland from any country [including EU Member States and Third Countries (non-EU)] is required to be clean, free of soil, plant debris or organic matter. These controls are necessary to protect Ireland’s plant health status and biosecurity.
I know the importance of the UK market for the importation of tractors and machinery. It's crucial for farmers, for contractors and, indeed, dealerships. We have a long track record of using this trade route and I want to ensure that it can continue into the future.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has taken a number of steps to facilitate the import of plant products and second-hand machinery following the UK's exit from the European Union (Brexit), including:
• Prior to 1st January 2021 and throughout 2021 the Department undertook a collaborative outreach campaign along with various state agencies to include Revenue, targeted at industry and representative bodies to raise awareness of the new imports requirements and processes. Stakeholder engagement has taken place across print media, through seminars (in person and online during COVID), workshops and port tours for industry to date.
• The Department has increased its staffing levels and resources at Border Control Posts providing 24/7 service to help manage the increased workload and ensure that phytosanitary checks are carried out efficiently and effectively.
In general, there are no significant delays experienced at the ports in relation to official controls on second hand machinery imports. However, where operators fail to provide adequate 24-hour notice or provide necessary documentation then delays are possible, but these cases are the exception.
