Paul Murphy
Question:65. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will legislate to ban hare coursing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8357/24]
View answerHare Coursing
Questions (65)
Written answers
Coursing is regulated under the Greyhound Industry Act, 1958, chiefly by the Irish Coursing Club (ICC), subject to the general control and direction of Rásaíocht Con Éireann; hare coursing is managed and regulated by the Irish Coursing Club. The organisation consists of 89 affiliated clubs from Ireland and Northern Ireland, all of whom are governed by the ICC’s rules and regulations.
The granting of licenses for the netting and tagging of hares is a matter for the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage – National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
A monitoring committee on coursing is in place, comprising officials from my Department, the ICC and the NPWS, to monitor developments in coursing and, in that regard, the situation is kept under constant review to ensure that coursing is run in a controlled manner.
The committee meets annually to review the previous coursing season and consider any matters arising.
It is important that those involved in coursing operate in accordance with the regulatory framework and that the welfare of both hares and greyhounds is at the forefront at all times. I have no plans at present to alter this arrangement.
Livestock Issues
Questions (66)
Brian Stanley
Question:66. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department can provide grant aid or any other assistance to Mountrath livestock mart to reopen for business. [3927/24]
View answerWritten answers
The operation of a livestock market is a private business which, from an animal health and welfare perspective, is subject to regulation by my Department.
Each year, nearly three million cattle and sheep are sold through livestock marts and I acknowledge the important role that marts play in maintaining viable sales outlets for livestock.
However, while periodically DAFM provides grant aid for marts to promote strategic Departmental objectives such as high standards of animal health, disease prevention or enhanced traceability, it is not the role of the Department to provide funding for the re-opening of marts.
My Department did provide specific supports to the overall livestock mart sector in recent years; these supported marts in modernising their facilities to adapt to new technologies introduced to enhance the traceability of animals through mart facilities.
Funding was most recently available in 2023 for marts to upgrade their equipment following the introduction of mandatory electronic identification (EID) of cattle. The Mart EID Upgrade Scheme closed on 10th November 2023.
There is no funding available from my Department to livestock marts to re-open for business.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Questions (67)
Bernard Durkan
Question:67. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he remains satisfied that productive agricultural land currently contributing to food production in this country is not decommissioned in favour of climate change objectives and that all possible scientific and dietary means are used to ensure carbon reduction without affecting the food-productive capacity of this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8248/24]
View answerWritten answers
Ireland is one of the most food secure countries in the world. In fact, Ireland has come second of 113 countries assessed for food security, according to the latest Global Food Security Index.
The issue of maintaining food production has been the subject of much discussion in the context of the Government's economy-wide target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 51% by 2030. My position has been consistent- each sector, including agriculture, will need to play its part to achieve this target, whilst maintaining food production.
The Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine have a number of policies and strategies in place to ensure Agriculture plays its role in meeting the national climate targets by 2030 and 2050, while continuing to sustainably produce food and feed. The Food Vision 2030 Strategy sets out a pathway to become a world leader in Sustainable Food Systems over the next decade. Food security, food safety and nutrition are key components of Sustainable Food Systems.
Under the Government's Climate Action Plans, the pathway to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the sector is clearly set out. These measures are grouped around three themes: inputs and additives, husbandry practices, and diversification. In practical terms, the types of actions that the sector is undertaking include reducing chemical nitrogen usage and changing fertiliser type, providing voluntary diversification options for farmers, while also improving the environmental dividend from our farmed land.
My aim is to future proof Ireland’s agri-food sector for the benefit of our industry, the environment and our farm families who are the backbone of the sector and rural communities. The sector will continue to be underpinned by our world class livestock and tillage sectors, and it is critical that we work collectively to achieve our environmental targets while maintaining food production.
Inshore Fisheries
Questions (68)
Catherine Connolly
Question:68. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of work to develop the new inshore fisheries sector strategy, in light of the fact that the previous one expired in 2023; the timeline for the publication of the new strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8250/24]
View answerWritten answers
The Strategy for the Inshore Fisheries Sector 2019-2023 was the first industry-led blueprint for the Irish inshore fisheries sector involving the National and Regional Inshore Fisheries Forums. I understand an inclusive approach was taken in developing that strategy, and in identifying the key issues and priorities for the sector, including a Steering Group with industry and State partners, a dedicated workshop and public consultation.
Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Ireland’s seafood development agency, has led the implementation of this strategy, in partnership with the National Inshore Fisheries Forum (NIFF) and with the support of my Department, the Marine Institute, the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority and other agencies. In contributing to the actions set out in the strategy, BIM carried out an Inshore Census during 2023 with the aim of gathering more detailed data on the Irish inshore sector and ensuring that there is a suitable evidence base to inform the current developing strategy for this important part of Ireland’s fishing fleet. BIM have reported a high response rate to this Census and are currently analysing the data provided by inshore fishers to this valuable initiative.
I can inform the Deputy that BIM is actively engaging with the inshore sector on a new Strategy and it is envisaged that an extensive consultation process will take place with the sector and other stakeholders. Since the NIFF brought forward the first industry-led Strategy for the sector in 2019, and during the lifetime of this Government, two Producer Organisations have been guided to provide additional representation for inshore fishers to give them a stronger voice. My Department completed the formal recognition process of the Irish Islands Marine Resource Organisation (IIMRO) as an EU Producer Organisation that focuses on our offshore islands and that of the National Inshore Fishermen’s Association (NIFA) as an EU Producer Organisation for inshore fishers. The new Strategy is being eagerly pursued and was discussed also at a meeting of the NIFF last week with my Department continuing to support this process, along with its future implementation.
The development of the new Strategy will also provide a means of engaging with the sector on its goals and ambitions while seeking to address matters important to this sector and fully considering measures to support its longer-term sustainability and viability. The Strategy will also aim to comprehensively address the challenges faced by the inshore sector and the measures necessary to support it in adapting to these challenges. It is expected that full engagement and consultation in respect of the new Strategy will continue to take place during the first half of the year with the Strategy anticipated to be ready for publication in the later part of 2024.
Control of Horses
Questions (69, 76)
Maurice Quinlivan
Question:69. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps his Department is taking to address the issue of unchipped horses wandering in urban settings, considering the Department does not maintain a centralised database in relation to levels of non-compliance for failure to microchip equines or the number of horses impounded. [5644/24]
View answerMaurice Quinlivan
Question:76. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps being taken to tackle the issues of maltreated and unchipped horses in Limerick’s urban areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8360/24]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 69 and 76 together.
Compliance with equine identification rules is delivered through a variety of tools across a number of government departments and agencies.
In the first instance, the relevant legislation which deals with the issue of straying horses is The Control of Horses Act 1996. This legislation is implemented by local authorities and provides them with powers enabling them to appoint authorised officers under the Act.
In terms of enforcement on the ground, enforcement is carried out by personnel in my Department working in Regional Offices. These officers work closely with their colleagues in the Local Authorities and An Garda Síochána and Revenue Commissioners Officials as required.
The extent of straying equines has reduced significantly and consistently in recent years. Almost 5,000 horses were seized in 2014 reducing to 295 in 2023.
Where equine animals are located, including straying animals, my Department’s policy is to adopt a fair and proportional approach. Authorised officers engage with keepers to ensure that they understand their responsibilities and where potential breaches of the legislation are identified, they generally provide an opportunity for non-compliant keepers to rectify the position within a specified time frame before issuing a compliance notice where necessary.
The Control of Horses Act is currently under review within my Department and plans for replacement legislation are well advanced. The Department undertook a limited stakeholder consultation late last year on the legislation with submissions sought by November 2023. These are being examined and will feed into the legislative process.
I am fully committed to supporting sustainable initiatives in line with the Programme for Government and Working Together for Animal Welfare, Ireland's Animal Welfare Strategy 2021-2025 and I continue to support urban horse projects nationwide. These projects can foster community leadership and education in responsible horse ownership for young people from disadvantaged communities or backgrounds. There are currently eight live projects. In October 2023, my Department hosted a seminar dedicated to the promotion of the urban horse projects.
In December 2023, I announced the record allocation of €6 million in funding to 101 animal welfare charities throughout the country, under the Animal Welfare Grant Programme. Of that figure, almost €3.4 million was awarded to charities involved in the care and welfare of horses.
Finally, in July 2023 I launched a new online portal that allows members of the public to check whether an equine is recorded on the central equine database. The portal allows visitors to check whether an equine passport number or microchip number is valid. The portal promotes compliance with equine identification rules by equipping potential purchasers with a means of checking whether a horse is compliant thereby creating an incentive for sellers to ensure any horses they are selling are properly identified and registered.
Departmental Strategies
Questions (70)
Niamh Smyth
Question:70. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on the work of the working group on women in agriculture. [8277/24]
View answerWritten answers
Advancing the role of women in the agriculture sector has been a key priority of mine since becoming Minister. The organisation of the national dialogue on women in agriculture last year and the subsequent publication of the Action Plan on 31st January were two major milestones in progressing this aim.
The Action Plan has been compiled from the outcomes and recommendations put forward at the Dialogue covering a wide range of areas from education and awareness to financial and Legal issues, leadership, visibility and sustainability.
The newly established Women in Agriculture Working Group is comprised of a range of representatives from across the sector including the Women in Agriculture Stakeholders Group, Dairy Women Ireland, Young female farmers, Teagasc, the AgDIF Forum, an agri-solicitor, Irish Forestry Owners, the marine sector as well as my Department who will facilitate and guide the implementation of the plan.
The group held its first meeting to coincide with the launch of the plan where lead action responsibility and desired outcomes were agreed. While it is very early days yet, initial steps have been taken on several of the actions including;
- Female farmer representative bodies are collaborating on delivering a series of events/webinars as outlined in Action 1
- Invitations have issued to agricultural education organisations to present to the group on current efforts in this space and future plans to address identified areas of concern in line with Actions 2 and 3
- The group is engaging with my Department's Communications unit to implement Action 4 on more inclusive language and imagery internally, in the first instance, rolling out to external bodies in due course
- A meeting has been scheduled to analyse proposed amendments to existing taxation policy as outlined in Actions 5 and 6
- A review of existing awards programmes has been initiated to identify a suitable forum for a DAFM sponsored "Women in Agriculture Innovation and Excellence Award" per Action 7
- Work has commenced on the establishment an internal review group to deliver on Actions 8 and 9
- The DAFM funded HERSELF research project is due to report its preliminary findings in April with policy proposal papers expected in May. Additional research already undertaken, in progress or proposed by working group member organisations will be shared and reviewed by the working group and form the basis for progressing Action 11
The group will meet regularly to assess and monitor progress and will report to the Food Vision High Level Implementation Committee.
Achieving the necessary changes to improve the experience of women active in the agri-food sector will take time but the implementation of this new Plan is the next practical step towards positive and meaningful change. It is a road map to a brighter, more inclusive, gender aware future for the sector and I am committed to pursuing targeted policies that build on the progress already made in this important area.
Agriculture Schemes
Questions (71)
Michael McNamara
Question:71. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when farmers in the CP areas of ACRES who carry out approved "non-profit investments" in 2024 will be reimbursed under the scheme; if he will confirm that it will be in 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8353/24]
View answerWritten answers
Last December, 2023, almost 4,300 farmers in the Co-operation Project (CP) stream, applied for 43,910 Non-productive Investments (NPIs) as part of their participation in my Department’s agri-environment scheme, ACRES. This reflects the huge interest farmers continually demonstrate in supporting the habitats and species found on their farms. NPIs - using the right action in the right place - can contribute to the maintenance of nature in Ireland’s diverse landscape, increase the field scores achieved in ACRES, and, in turn, increase payments to farmers under the Scheme.
All NPIs submitted to my Department during the application process are now being screened by the ACRES Co-operation Project Teams. This screening is carried out under Appropriate Assessment regulations and there are statutory requirements involved, such as notifying the National Monuments Service. The purpose of this important step is to consider the potential impact that any action - on its own, or in combination with other planned actions - may have on the surrounding landscape and environment. Any NPIs that are determined to have a detrimental impact on the countryside will be given an adverse screening decision, and will not be approved by my Department. This is the first step in the approval process. Work is ongoing in this regard and will continue for the coming months, as planned.
The second step is for my officials to consider the whole application for NPIs, including the screening decisions. The final decision will be communicated in writing to participants, with these approval letters issuing to farmers in the second half of this year. On approval, farmers may then commence any actions they choose, providing they are carried out at the time and in the manner set out in the NPI specifications, which are available on my Department’s website.
For the avoidance of doubt - and I cannot stress this enough - farmers must not carry out any NPI unless they have been approved to do so. Any actions carried out without approval, or before approval is received, will be at the farmer’s own expense and no payment will be made for these actions. I would also like to advise the Deputy that receipts for items purchased in connection with NPIs must be retained (dated after approval), and photos of the delivered action, submitted via AgriSnap, may be required. Details on claiming payment for NPIs delivered will be published later.
As the deputy is also aware I am making every effort to ensure that the ACRES core payment can be issued as quickly as possible to ACRES participants and I have decided to make an interim, nationally-funded, payment to those farmers who have not yet received a payment across ACRES General and Co-operation participants.
The rate of this interim payment will be €4,000 for those in ACRES general and €5,000 for those in ACRES Co-operation Projects. It is my intention to have this interim payment delivered to those farmers affected across ACRES General and Co-operation by the end of this month.
Animal Welfare
Questions (72)
Jennifer Murnane O'Connor
Question:72. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to encourage responsible dog ownership. [8245/24]
View answerWritten answers
I am fully committed to promoting responsible dog ownership among the general public.
The Animal Welfare Strategy 2021-2025 Working Together for Animal Welfare includes a commitment to establish an Advisory Council on Companion Animal Welfare. The Council convened in November 2021 with members having a diverse range of skill sets, so that it can advise me on matters relating to companion animals including canines.
Independent members with a range of expertise and experience have been appointed, including members from Veterinary Ireland, UCD, the ISPCA, the DSPCA, the Dogs Trust and others. This Council therefore is a critical stakeholder grouping which assists the Department and advises me in prioritising and advancing policy initiatives relating to companion animals.
My Department is working with the Council to promote responsible dog ownership. Responsible dog ownership is about educating people on the many considerations in getting a dog, keeping and managing a dog appropriately and breeding healthy dogs.
An example of the work of the Council was in the development of the Department’s approach to the animal welfare issue posed by brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeds.
These breeds have a high risk of health and welfare issues, including difficulty breathing, eye disease, spinal problems and skin infections. Many of these dogs require surgery to improve their quality of life. The Council advised that the use of images of brachycephalic dog breeds in advertising, marketing and news media has contributed to increasing demand for brachycephalic dogs in this country. An open letter was therefore issued by the Department on behalf of the Council to media and advertising organisations, requesting that the refrain from unnecessary use of images of these dogs in publications, on merchandise or for product endorsement.
Last year, with Minister Humphrey’s Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD), I established a working group on dog control. The group has produced a report which was approved by Cabinet and subsequently published.
This report contains a number of recommendations relating to the control of dogs. One of the key recommendations is the implementation of a media campaign, in collaboration with stakeholders and the Advisory Council on Companion Animal Welfare, to encourage responsible dog ownership
My officials are also working with officials in Minister Humphrey’s Department in relation to responsible dog ownership, to coordinate across government on this subject. Resulting from this collaboration, in December last year, following consultation with charities and stakeholders my Department and DRCD launched a responsible dog ownership leaflet. This has been distributed widely and is available in electronic form online at www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/1a517-responsible-dog-ownership/. We expect to carry out further initiatives to encourage responsible dog ownership in 2024.
Also in December, 2023, I announced record funding of almost €6 million to 101 animal welfare organisations with an increased focus on rewarding animal welfare charities engaged in educating and raising awareness among the public on responsible pet ownership.
The funding recognises the importance of education and dissemination of knowledge to improve animal welfare. Imparting knowledge on animal welfare plays a crucial role in improving standards nationally.
Question No. 73 answered with Question No. 48.
Departmental Bodies
Questions (74)
Catherine Connolly
Question:74. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 33 of 14 December 2023, for an update on the work of the wool council; if the €30,000 in departmental funding has been drawn down to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8243/24]
View answerWritten answers
One of the key recommendations of the Wool Feasibility Study was the establishment of an independent, all-island wool council that would be industry-led and comprise multiple stakeholders from the wool sector, including primary producers, farmers and commercial enterprises willing to fund research and marketing activities. In support of this recommendation my Department committed financial assistance of €30,000 in seed funding.
The Irish Grown Wool Council, established in April 2023, is an independent body with members from both sides of the border. My Department does not have a seat on the council and it does not report to me. However, I am aware that the Irish Grown Wool Council has done internal work around its structures and governance. It has also recently held its first AGM to discuss motions such as the appointment of council members and an independent chairperson.
The main external activity carried out since the establishment of the Irish Grown Wool Council was their recent participation in the Design & Craft Council Showcase 2024 at RDS in late January. The participation in the event included three one hour expert discussion panels.
The Irish Grown Wool Council also used the used the event as an opportunity to launch their IGWC Brand and new website www.irishgrownwoolcouncil.com
I also understand that €7,920 of the €30,000 seed funding has been drawn down to date and that another drawdown claim has recently been submitted to my Department.
Live Exports
Questions (75)
Brian Leddin
Question:75. Deputy Brian Leddin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will increase the minimum age for the live export of calves to 28 days and the minimum weight to 50 kg; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8321/24]
View answerWritten answers
Trade in live animals is a necessary and integral part of the dairy and beef sectors and plays an important part in supporting farm incomes, as a competitive balance in the market for beef animals and as an outlet for dairy calves. Such trade can only be sustainable on the basis of a strong regulatory regime which protects the welfare and the quality of the animals transported.
While the trade in and transport of animals is a private commercial activity it is heavily regulated by European and Irish national law which my department enforces.
I want to be very clear in stating that my Department only permits animals to be transported in compliance with current legislation.
On that very point, the European Commission published the first draft of the new rules on the protection of animals during transport in December - an initiative which Ireland strongly supports but is watching closely to ensure that measures are science based.
The draft rules will be debated by Member States in the EU Council, and three-way discussions will take place between Council, Commission and the European Parliament later in the year until a text is agreed and comes into effect.
One aspect of this legislative proposal that will fall for consideration is that calves that weigh less than 50kg and that are under 5 weeks of age would in future be considered unfit for transport over distances greater than 100 kilometres. (Under the current EU legislation it is permitted for transporters to bring calves to Europe from the age of 14 days.)
I would like to point out that my Department places very significant emphasis on the welfare of animals being transported and, as the regulator in this area, has already introduced several additional measures over recent years to further protect young calves during long distance transport, which go beyond European rules, including
• increased floor space for each animal in lorries,
• more frequent driver training,
• stricter temperature controls,
• a minimum limit of 40kg bodyweight of calves being transported.
Independent data on the health and welfare of Irish calves in Dutch production systems demonstrate that they have significantly lower mortality and lower antibiotic usage than calves from much closer to the Netherlands, including Dutch and German origin calves, indicating that their health and welfare is ensured during transport.
The Department, in conjunction with Teagasc, is carrying out on-going research exploring ways that could further support welfare during transport.
Question No. 76 answered with Question No. 69.
Legislative Programme
Questions (77)
Rose Conway-Walsh
Question:77. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide an update on the legislative programme. [3505/24]
View answerWritten answers
I wish to inform the Deputy that I have one Bill on the Government’s priority legislation list for publication during this Oireachtas term and that is the Agriculture Appeals (Amendment) Bill 2024.
The current Programme for Government contains a commitment to establish an Independent Agriculture Appeals Review Panel in legislation, as a priority and to ensure that the panel includes participants with practical knowledge and experience of farming.
This commitment is based on recommendations contained in the Report of Review of the Agriculture Appeals Act 2001 and the Operations of the Agriculture Appeals Office, which was conducted in 2017 with the report being published in February 2018. The report confirmed the independence of the Agriculture Appeals Office but recommended, inter alia, the establishment of an Independent Review Panel. It is envisaged that the Independent Review Panel will carry out reviews currently being carried out by the Director. The report further recommends that the panel should consist of five members – an independent Chairperson, the Director of the Appeals Office and three additional members with technical and practical expertise.
Under the current legislation, there is no time limit to seek a review of a decision of an Appeals Officer. The report also recommended putting in place a time limit for the seeking of reviews. The Amendment Bill will introduce time periods within which a review of an appeals officer's decision can be sought. This will be 6 months within which to seek a review from an appeals officer where new facts or new evidence arise, and 3 months to seek a review of an appeals officer’s decision from the panel in respect of an error in fact or in law.
The Bill also includes an amendment to Fisheries (Amendment) Act 1997 to remove the existing requirement that the Chair/members of the Aquaculture Licensing Appeals Board vacate their membership on reaching 70 years of age.
That Bill has now progressed to Pre-Legislative Scrutiny before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine. I am committed to bringing forward this legislation as I believe it will strengthen public confidence in the Agriculture Appeals process.
Question No. 78 answered with Question No. 57.
Exports Growth
Questions (79)
Colm Burke
Question:79. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to report on the resumption of beef exports to China following a recent diplomatic visit by the Chinese Premier in January 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5646/24]
View answerWritten answers
Negotiating the resumption of beef access to China has been a top priority for me since the temporary suspension last November. Utilising relationships that have been developed over recent years, my department engaged at diplomatic, political and technical levels to provide the scientific and technical detail needed to reassure the Chinese authorities of the effectiveness of Ireland’s BSE controls. Regaining access within three months is a great result for the Irish beef sector.
By way of background, beef shipments to China were suspended following the confirmation in November 2023 of an isolated case of atypical BSE in a ten and half year old cow. This was detected by my Department’s surveillance programme, did not enter the feed or food chain and posed no risk to human health. Atypical BSE occurs sporadically in all cattle populations at a very low rate and is not considered a public health risk. The identification of this case did not impact on Ireland's negligible risk status for BSE, as declared by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
The suspension of access to the Chinese market was entirely precautionary and in line with the protocol agreed with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).
As I said, the resumption of beef exports to this important market was a top priority for me since this event. Building on the strong bilateral relations we have developed in recent years, my department was able to quickly reassure the Chinese authorities of the effectiveness of Ireland’s BSE controls. These efforts culminated in the delivery of a detailed epidemiological report in early December 2023 and a detailed technical presentation to Vice Minister Li Kuiwne at a face-to-face meeting in Dublin in December 2023.
China’s decision on 17th January 2024 to resume Irish beef imports on the same conditions as before represents a clear vote of confidence in Ireland’s food safety systems and in the output of its beef sector. This was announced following the meeting between the Taoiseach and Premier Li.
The value of Irish beef exports to China, were worth €20 million before the suspension in November 2023. Its early resumption allows the beef sector now to engage with Chinese customers and consumers and I look forward to working with the exporters and Bord Bia in promoting Irish beef to this very important market.
Agriculture Supports
Questions (80)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Question:80. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if Cork North-Central is in receipt of funding for projects supporting agrifood tourism initiatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8375/24]
View answerWritten answers
The report of the Commission for the Economic Development of Rural Areas (CEDRA) suggested that there was significant economic potential in rural areas and recommended a number of actions by government departments to support the long-term development of rural Ireland.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine established the Rural Innovation & Development Fund (RIDF) to address some of the issues highlighted in the report.
Funding is provided by my Department under the RIDF for projects supporting agri-food tourism initiatives.
The most recent Call for Proposals for funding for Agri Food Tourism initiatives was issued on the 23rd of January 2024 with a closing date of 12 noon on the 23rd February.
Within the aforementioned report, rural areas are defined as all areas located beyond the administrative boundaries of the 5 largest cities, namely: Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford. On this basis, I have made funding of up to €25,000 available to applicants who are situated outside the administrative boundaries of Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford cities.
Fisheries Protection
Questions (81)
Jennifer Whitmore
Question:81. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to outline the process and timelines for decision surrounding the consultation on trawling activity inside the six-nautical-mile zone. [7870/24]
View answerWritten answers
Five years ago, in December 2018, a transition to a ban on vessels over 18 metres in overall length trawling in inshore waters, inside the six nautical mile zone and the baselines, was announced following a previous public consultation. This ban had a strong support base but was overturned following legal challenge. In view of changes in activity and issues concerning the marine space since then, I think it is important that this issue is reviewed and reflected on in an open, inclusive process.
To inform my review of trawling activity inside the six nautical mile zone, I launched a public consultation which will last for 8 weeks beginning on February 13th. This consultation will close at 1pm on April 12th.
To inform the consultation, up-to-date scientific and economic advice from the Marine Institute and Bord Iascaigh Mhara on trawling in the waters inside the six nautical miles has been published along with a consultation paper which sets out potential options and provides information on issues to consider.
I am conscious of the dependence of our inshore fleet, compared to larger vessels, on fishing resources within the six nautical mile zone. Other issues that need to be reflected on include balancing the management of our fisheries with the needs of the marine ecosystem but also the changes that have come with Brexit, the Energy Crisis and the Climate Crisis. The policy context is greatly changed from 2018. I encourage all interested parties to read the consultation documents and to reflect on those in making any submissions.
A previous consultation in this matter was held in 2018 which received in the order of 900 responses. It might be anticipated, therefore, that a similar large number of submissions will be received during this consultation. I hope for this process to be concluded by the final quarter of this year. It would not be appropriate, however, at this point to comment further on timelines, as the consultation, by its very nature, could bring up a number of alternative options or further considerations to be explored. These would need appropriate analysis and reflection.
Climate Action Plan
Questions (82)
Richard Bruton
Question:82. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the current rate of take-up of new farm methods which he regards as key to the Government climate ambitions and the step up needed by 2030 to meet the targets. [8346/24]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy will be aware, my Department has identified a number of actions in the Climate Action Plan (CAP) that will play a key role in the achievement of Ireland’s climate targets. Evidence of these actions is already being reflected in the most recent EPA Inventory reports, where Agriculture reduced emissions in 2022 by 1.2% compared to 2021.
The Programme for Government set an ambitious target for the Organic sector, to triple the organic land area to 336,000 hectares by 2027. The CAP has an additional target of 10% of the land area by 2030. This ambition was matched by a significant increase in funding and the launching of a new Organic scheme which has now achieved 180,000 hectares of organic land or 4% of the national land area.
Another area of focus is the reduction in the use of and reliance on chemical Nitrogen fertilizers. A 14% decrease in chemical Nitrogen use saw the use of chemical Nitrogen fall to approximately 343,000 tonnes in 2022. Fertiliser sales in 2023 were 280,569 tonnes, indicating a further 18% reduction which has put us below the Climate Action Plan target for 300,000 for 2030. We achieved this through the significant funding I put in place over the past number of years to allow farmers improve Nitrogen use efficiency.
Funding for Low Emission Slurry Spreading (LESS) has reduced the reliance on chemical Nitrogen and allowed farmers to maximise slurry use on farm, this has also helped significantly reduce Ammonia emissions. Data from the Teagasc National Farm Survey shows that 75% of average dairy farms and 25% of average cattle farms spread slurry via LESS, respectively.
Under the Nitrates Directive there is also a requirement to increase the proportion of clover in the sward, which will further reduce the dependence on chemical fertilizers. The use of protected urea products will also play a significant role in achieving the climate targets. In 2023 almost half of the urea sales were made up of protected urea, compared to just 5% in 2018.
Lastly, complementary actions under the CAP Strategic Plan have seen 3,000 hectares of multispecies sward sown in 2023, which has the dual benefit of mitigation of emissions by reducing the requirement of chemical fertilizers and the adaptive benefit of greater resilience to drought conditions.
There are many other environmental actions available to farmers under the CAP Strategic Plan, including agricultural practices in our new Eco-scheme, our €1.5 billion flagship agri-environment scheme ACRES, €260m for improvement of the genetic merit of the suckler herd and a five fold increase in funding for organic farming.
Forestry Sector
Questions (83)
Marian Harkin
Question:83. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine following the recent power outages in parts of County Leitrim during storm Isha as a result of poorly maintained forests, where some areas in County Leitrim were without power for up to six days, what actions he plans to take to ensure remediation works are carried out as a matter of urgency and furthermore that proper planning is adhered to in the planting of new forests. [8279/24]
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The management of forestry plantations is ultimately the responsibility of the owner of the land in question. Where the landowner is no longer under contract with my Department in relation to their forestry plantation, it is for the landowner to decide how and when they carry out general maintenance on their lands and there is no requirement to notify or seek approval from my Department under the Forestry Act 2014 or Forestry Regulations 2017, as amended provided such general maintenance does not entail thinning or felling for which a licence would be required under the 2014 Act.In respect of the maintenance of electricity transmission line corridors within forests., Section 98 of the Electricity (Supply) Act 1927, as amended by Section 45 of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999, empowers the ESB to lop or cut any tree, shrub or hedge which obstructs or interferes with electrical wires.
Such works may also be subject to terms of the agreement entered into between the Irish Farmers’ Association and the ESB as regards ESB lines interacting with grant-aided forest areas. My Department is not a party to the IFA / ESB agreement and its only function in relation to the same is to provide information, upon request, to parties regarding loss of earnings as they would otherwise arise from Afforestation Scheme payments. As set out in the Forestry Standards Manual, whilst such ESB corridors are intended to be left unplanted at the initial afforestation stage, where naturally regenerated trees do colonise the area, the trees are not to be allowed to grow to a height of more than 3m above the ground and the landowner is responsible for cutting or lopping the trees to ensure this. The landowner is also responsible for keeping a minimum corridor of at least 4 metres in width totally clear of regenerating trees for ESB maintenance access. This is not subject to any requirement for a Tree Felling Licence. If someone is dissatisfied with the outcome of such works, the landowner or any other 3rd party complainant, they have the option to complain to the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities (CRU).
Finally, my Department carries out regular inspections of the forest estate, including in County Leitrim and if issues are found that pertain to the implementation of the Forestry Acts then my Department will work with the relevant landowners on the matter.
Common Agricultural Policy
Questions (84)
Paul Murphy
Question:84. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is satisfied with the distribution of CAP direct payments, whereby the top eight recipients received more than €200,000 each, compared with an average payment of less than €9,657; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8355/24]
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CAP payments are a critical source of income for the many family farms that we have in Ireland. The CAP Strategic Plan, which was launched in 2023, will underpin the sustainable development of our agricultural sector by:
(i) supporting viable farm incomes and enhancing competitiveness,
(ii) contributing to the achievement of environmental and climate objectives at national and EU levels,and
(iii) strengthening the socio-economic fabric of rural areas.
This is being achieved with a range of schemes that are designed to ensure payments are made in an equitable manner to farmers in Ireland.
Under the CAP and in accordance with EU Regulation 1306/2013, the Department was obliged to ensure annual ex-post publication of all of the beneficiaries of CAP funding, both legal and non-legal persons.
For the most recent period that data is required to be published (16-Oct-2021 to 15-Oct-2022) a total of 121,742 payments totalling more than €1,175,980,000.00 was paid under Direct Payments and eight herds from within this group received in excess of €200,000.
In the new CAP a number of measures have been introduced to redistribute funding.
• Within the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) scheme, under convergence payment entitlement values will be brought to a national average value. This will see higher value entitlements decreasing and lower ones increase over the first four years of the Scheme (2023-2026).
• Complementary Redistributive Income Support for Sustainability (CRISS) is designed to ensure redistribution of direct payments from larger holdings to medium and smaller sized holdings.
• Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan provides for capping of payments to farmers in line with Regulation (EU) 2021/2115. Capping will apply in two tranches to a farmer’s BISS payment. The BISS payment above €100,000 is fully reduced, and the BISS payment €60,000-€100,000 is reduced by 85% resulting in an effective maximum BISS payment of €66,000.
These measures will ensure the CAP continues to support Irish family farms.