Written Answers Nos 48-64
48. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to establish a fodder aid scheme to assist persons in the north west in view of the adverse weather in autumn 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46954/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has been closely monitoring weather conditions, grass growth and feed supplies. It is clear that the weather conditions over the past number of weeks have been challenging and this has created difficulties for farmers in parts of the country, particularly in the Western Regions and on heavier lands.
Grass growth rates through September and October were ahead of recent years. Data from Pasturebase Ireland indicates that production is running about 1 tonne dry matter per hectare ahead of last year. Notwithstanding this, grazing conditions did deteriorate from mid-August on farms with heavier land. This has given farmers a number of challenging weeks managing livestock with animals having to be temporarily housed and difficulties with securing later cut silage. I note that there appears to be reasonable supplies of feed and fodder available across the country for those farmers who may require to supplement their own fodder supply. Given these challenges, I have asked Teagasc to work locally in areas with fodder difficulties, supporting the need for good budgeting of fodder supplies on farms for the winter ahead.
The European Commission agreed to my request for an advance payment of the 2017 Basic Payment Scheme, this has been prompted by the protracted inclement weather conditions and also market difficulties caused by currency fluctuations. This means an increase from 50% to 70% in the advance payment rate for the BPS to those applicants whose applications were confirmed fully clear. These payments were recently issued, and balancing payments will be made with effect from early December. There will also be an increase permitted to the advance for Pillar II Rural Development schemes such as GLAS.
These payments and the payments under the Areas of Natural Constraints Scheme, are injecting up to €800 million into the Irish rural economy and will provide a very welcome boost for Irish farm families.
Taking account of this, there are no plans at this time to establish a fodder aid scheme. My Department will continue to closely monitor the situation.
49. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 169 of 18 October 2017, if previous to 21 September 2017, the company complied with SI 261 of 2008 Notification of Disease (2) (a); the action he has taken or plans to take if the requirements of the legislation were not met. [46928/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Competent Authority responsible for the implementation of the Directive in Ireland is the Marine Institute.
The Marine Institute has confirmed to my Department that the operator of the aquaculture site in question has complied in full with the requirements of the Directive and Statutory Instrument No. 261 of 2008.
The mortalities at the site referred to by the Deputy have been caused in part by Cardiomyopathy Syndrome (CMS) and a jellyfish attack.
While my Department is satisfied that the notification requirements as specified in Statutory Instrument No. 261 of 2008 have been complied with, there are other notification requirements which form part of the terms and conditions of the applicable Aquaculture Licence. My Department is currently examining whether all the necessary notifications required by the licence terms and conditions have been fully adhered to. This examination is currently ongoing as part of a statutory process and, pending completion of this process it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.
50. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if in the context of CAP reform the Government sought a reduction in the amounts of the basic payment scheme; if so, the level to which it was requested to be reduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46939/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI want to make it clear that the Government has not sought reduction in the amounts allocated for the Basic Payment Scheme, and that as a matter of National policy, our objective has been to maintain the overall budget for CAP, including the Basic Payment scheme.
In relation to the amount for individual payments, however, since the 16th October 2015, Ireland decided to confine the maximum amount payable to any one applicant under the Basic Payment Scheme (excluding the Greening Payment) to €150,000 per annum.
Regulation 1307/2013, required payments over €150,000 to be reduced (degressivity) and in this context Ireland applied a 100% cut to any payment over that amount. Ireland had actively supported the concept of a maximum level during the current CAP negotiations back in 2013.
While the 2016 Programme for Government, proposed a lowering of the cap on basic payments from €150,000 to €100,000 during a mid-term review of the CAP, this opportunity is unlikely to arise as there will be no mid-term review of the existing CAP and a lowering of the limit would require a legislative change of the Basic Act 1307/2013 (Direct Payments Regulation) in Council, something that has not been envisaged as part of the Commission ongoing simplification and modernisation programme of the existing CAP. I am however committed to addressing this matter in the context of the future reform of the CAP, with the Commission scheduled to publish a communication on CAP post 2020, on 29 November 2017.
In that context, my Department received a leaked document on 19 October 2017 titled the “The Future of Food and Farming” and it is assumed this is an early draft of the Commission communication scheduled for 29 November 2017. While the extent to which its content will be reflected in the final communication is of course unclear, a notable element included is the suggestion to cap direct payments at between €60,000 and €100,000. My officials are currently examining the impact of such a proposal.
51. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will report on the input his Department had into Cabinet discussions on Ireland's role in and contribution to global climate change mitigation in advance of the Bonn climate change conference; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47044/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has been actively involved in the whole of Government approach to climate policy and in particular, with the Department of Communications, Climate Action and the Environment, which is the lead department in this area.
Ireland’s contribution to the global climate action plan, The Paris Agreement, is through the intended nationally determined contribution (INDC) tabled by the EU on behalf of its Member States, which commits to a reduction of 40% in EU-wide GHG emissions by 2030, compared with 1990. My Department actively participates in the EU Agriculture, Forests and Other Land Uses (AFOLU) team to promote and seek EU agreement on the Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use approach to the treatment of the land sector in UN climate change negotiations.
The extent of the challenge to reduce GHG emissions is clearly understood by Government as set out in the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act. Officials from my Department are involved in a number of cross-departmental committees and technical analysis groups established to progress the national climate action agenda.
My Department and its agencies have been strongly focused on improving the efficiency of Irish farming which is key to reducing emissions. We are focussed on improving animal, grassland and nutrient management and have invested heavily in a number of schemes and measures such as the Origin Green initiative, the Beef Data and Genomics Programme and our Agri-Environment Scheme, GLAS. Our knowledge transfer programmes are key to bringing the latest innovative sustainability research and practices direct to farmers. These strategies have led to a significant disaggregation of production output and emissions, with current analysis suggesting that the emissions intensity per kcal of food output in 2013 is reduced approximately 14% relative to 2005.
Officials from my Department are part of Irelands National delegation led by DCCAE and have also been engaging with the UNFCCC’s Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA) which is tasked with considering issues related to agriculture. We have engaged in a number of workshops which has seen a lot of good work happening at the technical level.
Development and promotion of locally appropriate technologies and practices based on sound science is crucial to ensure that food production is both resilient to climate change and makes best use of limited resources.
52. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to establish a special task force to liaise and co-ordinate between his Department and the Departments of Communications, Climate Action and Environment and Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht to examine and drive a co-ordinated and coherent plan for utilising and expanding native forestry to maximise its multiple benefits in line with commitments on climate change mitigation, environmental and heritage protection and enhancing biodiversity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47045/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department meets regularly with the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment and the Department of Culture Heritage and the Gaeltacht on a wide range of forestry issues. There are currently no plans to establish a special task force on native woodlands.
The Native Woodland Establishment Scheme is a key component of Ireland’s Forestry Programme, particularly in realising broadleaf targets and in demonstrating how appropriately-sited and managed forest cover, in the form of native woodlands, can bring a wide range of benefits. My Department is currently carrying out a midterm review of the Forestry Programme 2014 – 2020 in which a number of new initiatives are being considered to boost the planting of native trees. This may include possible improvements to the Native Woodland Conservation scheme. This scheme aims to enhance and protect existing native woodlands.
Furthermore within the context of the Water Framework Directive my Department is promoting its ‘Woodland for Water’ concept involving the development of new native woodlands specifically created to protect and enhance water quality. We are currently working with the Environmental Protection Agency to identify areas where this approach would have the greatest impact.
53. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on whether his Department is not sufficiently supporting small scale coppice management of existing hedgerows and woodlands on farms (details supplied); his plans to use existing funding not currently being availed of for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47041/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraCoppice management is a traditional form of woodland management in Ireland, dating back centuries, and is associated with high native woodland biodiversity and the production of material suitable for local consumption, for example firewood, craftwork and cottage industry end-uses. Unfortunately, the vast majority of these woodlands have been neglected or exploited in the last century or two, and have lapsed as functioning coppice woodland to form high forest canopy.
My Department’s Native Woodland Conservation Scheme supports the protection and enhancement of existing native woodlands. The restoration of these former coppice or coppice-with-standards woodland to active coppice management is an eligible operation under this scheme. To date, every valid application under this scheme has been approved.
My Department also supports the growing of timber for wood fuel under the Forestry for Fibre grant and premium category. Forestry for Fibre provides financial assistance to landowners who want to plant trees for use as domestic fuel or as an energy source generating heat and/or electricity. Trees planted under Forestry for Fibre can be harvested in 10 – 15 years, generating yields of between 150 – 300 cubic metres per hectare. This rotation is significantly less than conventional forestry where conifer forests mature between 35 and 40 years.
My Department continues to support the planting of new native forests under the afforestation scheme. Under this scheme the entire cost of establishment is covered by the grants available. Furthermore, the highest level of premiums are paid for native woodland establishment where annual premiums of €635 per hectare is available to landowners for 15 years. Further improvements to this grant and premium category have been proposed under the midterm review in order to further encourage landowners to plant native woodlands.
54. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to block the Mercosur deal as it currently stands to protect Irish farm livelihoods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46942/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI and my officials have been very active in highlighting the potentially very damaging impact of a Mercosur deal on the European agriculture sector, and on the beef sector in particular. We continue to monitor the situation closely and respond as appropriate to developments in order to defend the interests of Irish farmers, working in close co-operation with my Government colleagues, particularly the Tánaiste and the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, and the Taoiseach.
At political level, I have continuously raised the issue with my Member State colleagues and with Commissioners Hogan and Malmström, both within the Council of Agriculture Ministers and in written form. These efforts have been reinforced at official level through similar contacts with Member States and the Commission, particularly through the Special Committee on Agriculture and the Trade Policy Committee. The Taoiseach has also raised the matter with Presidents Junker and Macron.
Most recently Ireland made the latest in a series of very strong interventions on this matter at the Trade Policy Committee in Brussels on 27 October, and I raised the matter at the Council of Agriculture Ministers in Luxembourg in October and again in Brussels this week. I have also worked very closely with a number of other Member States, most notably France, including in the production of a joint paper that was submitted to the European Commission on 26 September outlining our shared concerns. And I wrote to Commissioner Malmstroem in early October reiterating my concerns in relation to the tabling of a beef tariff rate quota offer by the EU during the most recent round of negotiations.
I believe there is a need for continued vigilance in relation to the conduct of these trade negotiations, and I will continue to insist that they are handled appropriately, and in a manner that safeguards the interests of the Irish and European beef sector. In this regard I believe full account must be taken of the findings of the Commission’s own assessment of the cumulative impact of trade deals on the agrifood sector, and the potentially very damaging impact of Brexit on an already delicately balanced EU beef market.
Against this background I can assure the Deputy that I will continue to engage closely with other Member States and the Commission to ensure that the interests of the EU beef sector are protected in any trade deal with Mercosur countries.
55. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if there will be a public consultation in the allocation of the additional funding for the ANC scheme in 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46931/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Areas of Natural Constraint (ANC) Scheme is a very important source of financial support for farmers across the country, paying over €200 million each year to over 95,000 farmers. In view of this, the Programme for a Partnership Government included a commitment for a €25 million increase in funding for the Scheme in 2018. I am happy to confirm that this commitment was delivered in the recent budget.
There are a number of options in relation to how this additional €25 million can be allocated in 2018. These options are currently being examined, with a view to being in place for payment under the 2018 Scheme. As part of this process, I have had some discussions with farm bodies in relation to their views on the allocation of this additional funding, and this process will continue as the increased funding is allocated to the 2018 scheme. Changes to payments under the scheme will also require formal agreement with the EU Commission via a formal amendment of the Rural Development Programme, 2014-2020.
The 2017 ANC payments commenced on 19th September and to date over €187 million has been paid to some 87,000 farmers. Payments are continuing on a rolling basis as more farmers satisfy eligibility and stocking rate requirements.
I am pleased to note that 2017 payments are ahead of where they were this time last year.
56. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department has made or will make revisions to its policies in regard to the management of methane emissions from enteric fermentation and manure management in view of a recent study (details supplied) in which revised calculations of methane produced per head of cattle show that global livestock emissions in 2011 were 11% higher than estimates based on data from the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47094/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of the report the deputy is referring to, however, I note that the report states that regarding livestock methane emissions there is notable variability among regions and sources. The Report found that total livestock methane emissions have increased the most in rapidly developing regions of Asia, Latin America and Africa. In contrast, emissions decreased slightly in Western Europe.
In Ireland, methane accounts for approximately 22% of our national GHG emissions and is based on nationally appropriate emissions factors and robust national animal census figures.
As the deputy will be aware, there is a whole of Government approach to climate policy as set out in the National Climate Policy Position. Officials from my Department work very closely with other Departments and in particular, with the Department of Communications, Climate Action and the Environment, which is the lead department in this area.
The long-term ambition for the Irish agriculture and land use sector is an approach to carbon neutrality which does not compromise capacity for sustainable food production. The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2015 provides a statutory basis for Government policy on climate change. As required by the Act, a National Mitigation Plan (NMP) was published in July and includes key sectoral mitigation measures for the agriculture, forest and land use sector.
Irish agricultural production is recognised by international independent analysis as having one of the lowest carbon-footprints within the EU.
The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre Report of 2010 also recognised with regards to dairy systems in Europe, intensive systems create less methane and nitrous oxide emissions than extensive ones, but this is countered by higher emissions from land use and land use change. Lowest emissions are created by extensive grassland systems, such as those in Ireland. The FAO has also recognised the efficiency of our temperate grassland based production system.
A range of actions are being undertaken to make Irish farming even more environmentally sustainable, including measures under the Rural Development Programme (RDP), which is worth almost €4 billion over 7 years. The Programme is strongly targeted towards environmental benefits, including knowledge transfer programmes, which will bring the latest innovative sustainability research and practices direct to farmers.
My Department continues to invest in and engage with research initiatives to further assist with the refinement, development and deployment of new and innovative practices to reduce GHGs that are associated with agricultural production. Future policy interventions will be based on the outcome of such well-informed scientific research.
57. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the measures he proposes to limit the impact of Brexit on farmers in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46937/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI fully recognise the potential difficulties that farmers, including those in County Wexford, are likely to face in the event of a hard Brexit, given the highly integrated nature of agri-trade between Ireland and the UK.
From the beginning of the Article 50 negotiations Government policy has been to maintain a trading relationship with the UK as close as possible to the current configuration, and in the case of the Island of Ireland, to avoid any kind of border.
The position of Government on this matter could not be clearer. As a response to Ireland's concerns, the special position of Ireland is explicitly recognised in the Article 50 negotiating guidelines, which indicate that flexible and imaginative solutions will be required to avoid a hard border.
This is also the position articulated in Prime Minister May's letter triggering Article 50 on 29th March 2017, and equally is reflected in the position adopted by the European Parliament. The need to protect the Good Friday Agreement and the Common Travel Area is a critical part of this dynamic. All of the institutions of the European Union and the UK Government are ad idem on these principles, and I believe that there is a broad political consensus in this House also. Clearly the best protection for farmers in Co. Wexford and elsewhere, lies in the avoidance of a hard border.
Ever since the UK Referendum on Brexit, I and my Department have been actively engaged in assessing the impact of the vote on the Irish agrifood sector, consulting with appropriate stakeholders and engaging with the relevant politicians and institutions. This work is being done in conjunction with the overall Government response led by the Department of Foreign Affairs.
While the main impact to date of the Brexit vote has been the effect of sterling volatility on those businesses that have a significant trading relationship with the UK, the medium to long term threats include the possible introduction of tariffs on trade between the EU and UK, potential divergences in regulations and standards between the EU and UK, and the implications of border controls and certification requirements.
I and my Department, in cooperation with Government and other Departments and Agencies, are attempting to mitigate the consequences through a range of activities under two distinctive pillars – Competitiveness and Product/Market Diversification.
Under Competitiveness my Department introduced a number of measures in Budget 2017 to help minimise farm gate and business costs, including the introduction of €150m low cost loan scheme for primary producers, new agri-taxation measures and increased funding under the Rural Development and Seafood Development Programmes. Under Budget 2018, I have provided exchequer funding to support a €300m Brexit loan scheme, at least 40% of which will be available to food businesses, and my Department is working with SBCI to develop a similar scheme for farmers, Fishermen and food business.
Under Product/Market Diversification I continue to support Bord Bia in its investment in market prioritisation initiatives, which are aimed at identifying potential diversification opportunities. Since the final quarter of 2016 I have provided Bord Bia with more than €14 million in additional funding for a programme of marketing and promotional activity in international and EU markets , and also in the UK.
I have also allocated an additional €2m to Teagasc to allow them to commence work on an €8.8m investment in a new National Food Innovation Hub which will help Irish food businesses to innovate and expand.
I wish to assure the House that I and the Government remain very focused on supporting the agrifood industry through the challenges ahead. I will continue to consult with the industry as the negotiations develop, and press Ireland's case for continued free access to the UK market, without tariffs and or burdensome customs and administrative procedures.
58. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent of exploration to date of alternative markets for Irish food and food products throughout the EU and globally with particular regard to the need to make alternative arrangements with the onset of Brexit; the extent to which it seems likely to bridge the gap arising from the UK exit from the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47093/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe identification of alternative markets for Irish food and food products within the EU and elsewhere has been a key priority for me and my Department and we have renewed our efforts in this regard against the background of Brexit.
The task requires a focused effort on attracting new economically viable markets and, while our record to date has been very impressive, we have to raise the bar even further. We are, however, fortunate in that we have an excellent industry-led strategy for the growth of the sector in Food Wise 2025 which provides a clear road-map for its development.
Last April I set out a seven point plan which was aimed at increasing international market access for Irish food and drink exports. The plan is being implemented by my Department, with significant input from Bord Bia and Irish Embassies around the world, in order to help increase the footprint of our food and drink exports.
Ireland has been proactive in addressing market access issues, so that markets are open when demand factors align in our favour. For example, in 2017 Ireland hosted inspection visits from Chinese, US and South Korean authorities. There have also been a number of notable market access successes in recent years:
- Ireland was the first EU country to gain access to the US market for beef in 2014;
- Ireland has agreed a beef protocol with China and is working through the final stages of access with Chinese authorities;
- For meat sectors in 2017 alone, access has been granted or trade conditions simplified in Egypt, Namibia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Singapore, Israel, and Chile.
The Department is continuing to work with competent authorities in many other third countries on beef, sheepmeat, pigmeat, seafood and poultry access issues.
Later this week I will lead a Trade Mission to South East Asia, this time to Japan and the Republic of Korea where I hope to deepen trade ties and develop new market opportunities. This follows on from earlier trade missions to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in Feb/March, and to the USA and Mexico last June. In addition, over the past two years I have led trade missions to China, Singapore, the Gulf States and Morocco. Minister of State Doyle has led missions to Vietnam and South Korea, and departmental officials have led missions to Iran, Algeria and Turkey.
The UK will continue to be a vital market outlet for our industry, and with that in mind, I have met with the CEOs of the major UK retailers to impress upon them Ireland's continued commitment to meeting the requirements of UK retailers and consumers.
I am keenly aware of the need to ensure that adequate market opportunities continue to exist for our agrifood products after the UK exit the EU and I wish to assure the House that I, my Department and our Agencies will continue to do everything necessary to ensure that this is so.
59. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the input his Department will have into the European Court of Auditors audit on animal welfare measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46932/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe European Court of Auditors (ECA) mission is to contribute to improving the European Union's (EU) financial management, promote accountability and transparency and act as the independent guardian of the financial interests of the citizens of the Union. The ECA’s role as the EU’s independent external auditor is to check that EU funds are correctly accounted for, are raised and spent in accordance with the relevant rules and regulations and have achieved value for money.
As an independent auditor, the ECA must remain separate from the influence of any Member State. It selects specific tasks at its own discretion and formulates its audit plan on the basis of criteria such as public interest, risk of irregularity or poor performance and potential for improvement. The ECA has recently made the decision to examine whether Member States have made effective contributions to the European Union’s animal welfare objectives and whether compliance has been achieved with animal welfare legislation.
It is proposed that five countries - Germany, France, Romania, Italy and Poland - be assessed in this current programme, with audit reports from the ECA expected to issue in late 2018 . These inspections will focus specifically on policies relating to farm animals, with scrutiny to be applied not only to on-farm conditions but also to other important components of the industry such as transport and slaughter.
The European Union has always ensured that animal welfare issues are assigned the highest priority. It has reinforced policy objectives with significant Rural Development contributions under the Common Agricultural Policy, which will contribute €1.5 billion to animal welfare payments from 2014 to 2020. This proposed ECA audit plan is an important development and displays both to worldwide markets and to our own citizens, that animal welfare is a cornerstone of the EU Agriculture model.
While Ireland has not been selected for an audit on this occasion, officials of my Department are ready to facilitate, and engage with, members of any ECA audit team which may be assigned to this jurisdiction at a future date.
60. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the rules for the movement of animals to bed and breakfast accommodation; the protections in place for the owner of the animals if the new rules allow that the next movement of the animals is not automatically back to the original herd; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46953/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe bovine traceability system is operated in accordance with EU regulatory requirements whereby movements from holding to holding are recorded.
A bed and breakfast arrangement is where one farmer contracts another farmer to care for his animals on their farm e.g. overwintering the cattle.
The rules for all movements, including those that occur during bed and breakfast arrangements, are the same. Cattle can return to the source herd or be moved to another holding or to slaughter provided such movement satisfies the movement rules on the Animal Identification and Movement database (AIM).
From a bovine traceability perspective animals must be recorded properly in the location that they currently reside on the AIM database. It should be noted that my Department has no role in relation to the ownership of animals or any legal contract associated with the animals during a bed and breakfast arrangement. Such issues are commercial matters between the herd keeper and the operator of the bed and breakfast outlet.
In the Information Note for Applicants for a Herd Number for Cattle it clearly states that ownership of animals is not inferred by the granting of a herd number or the role of herd keeper.
61. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to support wholesale tree nurseries that experienced damage from Storm Ophelia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46394/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am very aware of the damaging effects of Storm Ophelia on many sectors, including agriculture and horticulture. This is most regrettable as the horticulture sector is experiencing strong market demand after a number of challenging years. I am confident that as our economy continues to grow the nursery sector will likewise prosper.
In 2016, Ireland’s horticulture sector contributed over €430m to the value of output at farm-gate level. The horticulture sector is estimated to be directly responsible for over 6,600 jobs with many more employed indirectly both upstream and downstream. Within the total horticulture farm gate output value of €430m the hardy nursery stock sector and the protected amenity plant sector combined to contribute almost €51m in 2016 to the value of output at farm-gate level. This value was up from an estimated €44m in 2015.
While market prospects for amenity plant growers are certainly very positive, I am very conscious of the challenges, not least from the recent storms, currently facing the industry and my Department, along with the various state agencies, Bord Bia, Teagasc and Enterprise Ireland, are working closely to support the industry through a number of measures.
The Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector is the main support offered by my Department to the amenity or nursery sector. This scheme facilitates capital investments in a broad range of specialised horticultural equipment and buildings by providing grant aid on approved costs at a rate of 40%. In the case of young applicants under 35 years of age the rate of grant aid increases to 50%.
This scheme is highly regarded by the industry and is an excellent vehicle for investment in all sectors of the Horticulture industry. I sought an increase in the Budget allocation for the scheme in 2017 and this increase has been maintained through the allocation of €5m for the Scheme in 2018. In light of the sectoral demand, I am working to advance the launch of the 2018 Commercial Horticulture Scheme . A timely launch of the 2018 Scheme is recognition of the most recent challenge to the sector but is also a clear signal of my continued support for and commitment to its ongoing development.
Under the scheme, €6.4 million in grant aid has been paid to applicants from the Nursery Stock and related Amenity Plant Sectors over the period 2008-2016. This has supported investment of almost €16 million by the sector. In the current year a further €1.1 million in grant aid has been allocated under the scheme to 29 applicants from the Nursery Stock and related Amenity Plant Sectors.
This year, approvals under the scheme were issued to an overall total of 156 applicants across the horticulture industry. Many of the 2017 scheme applicants have already been inspected and paid. The processing of more recent claims is on-going and every effort is being made to deliver payments as quickly as possible to assist growers that may be facing cash flow issues. For 2017 the Commercial Horticulture Grants Scheme was allocated a budget of €5m and my staff advise me that they expect the full budget available for the scheme this year will be utilised.
Maintaining the increased allocation of €5m in funding for the 2018 Scheme of Investment Aid for Commercial Horticulture reflects this Government's commitment to ongoing support for Ireland’s horticulture sector. The competitive nature of the Commercial Horticulture Grants Scheme combined with the scheme’s flexibility and ability to react to evolving situations are two key strengths in supporting this highly dynamic sector.
Growers, including amenity plant nurseries that wish to apply for the scheme are encouraged to prepare and submit their applications as soon as possible.
In terms of other supports for the sector I would also like to add that the “SBCI Loan Scheme” launched in last year’s budget was a great success and a number of horticultural businesses have benefitted from these low interest loans. As part of the recent Budget, €25 million has been secured to facilitate the development of a new Brexit response loan scheme for farmers, fishermen, and food businesses in 2018 and further details about that scheme will be announced in due course.
62. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding attempts by the Government at EU level to ensure the reauthorising of glyphosate for Irish farmers. [47097/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe European Commission extended the approval of glyphosate for a limited interim period in June 2016 to allow for the completion of an assessment by the Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). The extension followed a comprehensive review by the European Food Safety Authority. This review, which included detailed consideration of a report produced by the International Agency for Research on Cancer of the World Health Organisation, concluded that glyphosate is unlikely to pose a carcinogenic hazard to humans and can be used safely without putting consumers or users at risk.
The Risk Assessment Committee concluded in March 2017, in an opinion adopted with the full support of all members, that glyphosate does not warrant classification as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction. This means that legally glyphosate does not meet any of the substance non-approval criteria specified in Regulation 1107/2009. A final decision on renewing the approval of glyphosate is due to be taken by 15 December 2017.
Based on the conclusions of the risk and hazard assessments conducted by the European Food Safety Authority and the European Chemicals Agency the Commission prepared a first draft of a proposal for renewal of the approval of glyphosate for a 10-year period with various conditions of use attached, instead of the normal 15-year approval period. The proposal was discussed by Member State representatives at the technical experts standing committee meeting in July 2017 and again in early October.
My Department indicated support for the Commission proposal for a 10 year approval period tabled at these meetings. However, as there was insufficient support for the Commission proposal, no formal vote was taken. There followed a brief discussion which largely concentrated on the length of the approval period, but this discussion failed to yield a satisfactory compromise.
A further meeting of the standing committee is scheduled for tomorrow 9 November to consider a revised proposal to renew the approval of glyphosate for a 5 year period.
In my view it is important that decisions such as this are made on the basis of the best scientific information that is available to us as policy makers. In this instance the latest scientific information available from assessments completed by the European Food Safety Authority and the European Chemicals Agency supports the renewal of glyphosate and my Department has therefore supported Commission proposals in this regard.
63. Deputy Michael Harty asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding a product (details supplied) further to the decision by the European Parliament to back a full ban on glyphosate-based herbicides; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46936/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt the end of October the European Parliament approved a resolution, which is non-binding, against renewing the approval of glyphosate for 10 years and calling for further restrictions on the substance from 2018 and an outright ban in 2022. This resolution does not impact on existing authorisations of products that contain glyphosate.
The process that has been followed to date with regard to the renewal of the approval of glyphosate involved the European Commission extending the approval of glyphosate for a limited interim period in June 2016 to allow for the completion of an assessment by the Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). The extension followed a comprehensive review by the European Food Safety Authority. This review, which included detailed consideration of a report produced by the International Agency for Research on Cancer of the World Health Organisation, concluded that glyphosate is unlikely to pose a carcinogenic hazard to humans and can be used safely without putting consumers or users at risk.
The Risk Assessment Committee concluded in March 2017, in an opinion adopted with the full support of all members, that glyphosate does not warrant classification as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction. This means that legally glyphosate does not meet any of the substance non-approval criteria specified in Regulation 1107/2009. A final decision on renewing the approval of glyphosate is due to be taken by 15 December 2017.
Based on the conclusions of the risk and hazard assessments conducted by the European Food Safety Authority and the European Chemicals Agency the Commission prepared a first draft of a proposal for renewal of the approval of glyphosate for a 10-year period with various conditions of use attached, instead of the normal 15-year approval period. The proposal was discussed by Member State representatives at the technical experts standing committee meeting in July 2017 and again at two meetings in October.
A further meeting of the technical experts standing committee is scheduled for tomorrow, 9 November, to consider a revised proposal to renew the approval of glyphosate for a 5 year period.
The continued authorisation of products containing glyphosate for use in Ireland after 2017 is dependent on the outcome of the current EU decision-making process. In my view it is important that decisions such as this are based on the best scientific information that is available to us as policy makers. In this instance the latest scientific information available from assessments completed by the European Food Safety Authority and the European Chemicals Agency supports the continued approval of glyphosate.
64. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the discussions he has had with the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government regarding exceptional cases being examined for slurry spreading; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46934/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government (DHPLG) is the lead Department in relation to the nitrates regulations. The closed period for slurry spreading as provided for in the regulations commenced on 15 October. Taking account of the high rainfall in the lead up to the commencement of the closed period, the DHPLG and my Department recognised that there may be some concerns for animal welfare. Farmers with such concerns were advised to contact the Nitrates Section of my Department by 14 October. Farmers wishing to avail of flexibility for spreading slurry were advised:
- To spread only that volume of slurry necessary to ensure adequate storage capacity for the remainder of the closed period.
- That any spreading should occur as soon as good spreading conditions exist.
- That the Nitrates Section of my Department will subsequently contact the farmers to confirm the dates on which this additional spreading takes place.
Approximately 600 farmers out of a total of 109,000 bovine farmers in the State contacted my Department to indicate they may not be able to complete the spreading of slurry by the beginning of the closed period. We are in the process of confirming how many of these 600 farmers have had to avail of this limited flexibility. These farmers will be prioritised for inspection by Local Authorities to ensure that minimum storage requirements are in place.
We are currently negotiating the next Nitrates Action Programme and Nitrates Derogation and it is critical that these negotiations progress and we avoid the difficulties encountered in other Member states such as Holland. In this context and to ensure the protection of water quality, this course of action is deemed necessary. Those farmers with the required storage capacity availing of this flexibility should not have reason for concern.
As regards farm safety and slurry, both Departments stress the importance of farmers ensuring that safety is their number one priority as toxic gases are released when slurry is agitated and one breath at this time can cause instant death. All of those working with slurry should be aware of the dangers involved and make sure they work safely at all times.
