Jackie Cahill
Ceist:1032. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the percentage of horses that are microchipped nationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13340/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraControl of Horses
Ceisteanna (1032)
Freagraí scríofa
The legislation governing the identification of equines is Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/262, as transposed into national legislation via S.I. 62 of 2016.
As required by Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/262, my Department's central equine database records the registration details of equines issued with passports by approved Passport Issuing Organisations (PIOs) in the State as well as the registration details of equines resident in Ireland but issued with passports by approved PIOs outside the State. These database registrations date back to 1st January 1980.
Of the live equines recorded on the central equine database, 55% have microchip numbers associated with them. It should be noted that 51% of all live equines recorded on the database were identified with passports prior to 1st July 2009 and therefore are not required to be implanted with a microchip.
The identity of an equine is determined by the unique equine life number (UELN) assigned by an approved passport issuing organisation (PIO) to the single lifetime identification document (passport) issed in respect of that equine. While the microchip number is recorded on the passport and provides a link between the animal and its identification document, the microchip is not an identification mechanism in its own right.
All equines in respect of which a passport issued from 1st July 2009 are required to be implanted with a microchip, the number of which must be recorded on the passport document. All equines issued with a passport prior to 1st July 2009 are deemed to be properly identified in accordance with this legislation and accordingly are not required to be implanted with a microchip.
Fishing Industry
Ceisteanna (1033)
Pádraig MacLochlainn
Ceist:1033. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will report on his efforts over recent months to secure a fair burden sharing of the fish quota loss arising from the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement amongst the fishing fleets of the affected EU member states as called for by the affected fishing industry here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13346/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) will, unfortunately, have an impact on our fishing industry. However, this impact would have been far greater had the Barnier Task Force agreed to UK demands, or had we been in a no-deal scenario which would have seen all EU vessels barred from UK waters and subsequent displacement into Ireland's fishing zone.
There is, however, one key element in the final negotiation outcome which gives rise to major concern and dissatisfaction in Ireland and this relates to the disproportionate payment Ireland was required to make towards the final fish quota transfer package to the UK.
I wish to assure the Deputy that this Government intends to continue to keep the focus on this very undesirable situation and to use any opportunity available to seek constructive solutions that would help to alleviate this unacceptable position.
On 20th January, I met with Michel Barnier, the EU Fisheries Commissioner and the Ministers of the Fisheries Group of 8 on fisheries related matters post-Brexit. I raised this matter of inequitable burden sharing directly at this meeting.
I also raised this matter at EU Fisheries Councils in both January and February. At the February meeting, I put forward a practical proposal to seek an exchange from the UK of mackerel for North Sea whitefish on the basis of a proposal from the Irish industry. However, this was rejected by all relevant Member States.
I raised the matter once more at a meeting held on 2nd March with the Ambassadors to Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, where I expressed my keenness to see the solidarity so evident before the conclusion of the TCA continue to find ways to reduce this imbalance. I also reminded the Ambassadors that Ireland contributes the largest fishing grounds to the CFP.
Fishing Industry
Ceisteanna (1034)
Pádraig MacLochlainn
Ceist:1034. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the advice or briefings that the office of the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence received from his Department ahead of the Minister’s meeting with the French Minister for European and Foreign Affairs in Paris on 3 December 2020. [13347/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
From the outset of the EU/UK negotiations on a future relationship, Ireland and our EU partners were very clear on our level of ambition on fisheries and on the fact that the EU had directly linked progress on an overall trade deal to progress on fisheries. We were seeking to protect the interests of the Irish fleet in terms of both quota share and access to UK waters. This was reflected in the EU negotiation mandate and the draft EU legal text. This Government, and the previous Government, fully supported the EU negotiating mandate.
The briefing material provided to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Defence in relation to fisheries in the context of the Minister for Foreign Affairs meeting with the French Minister for European and Foreign Affairs in Paris on 3 December 2020 provided detailed background and analysis and made clear that any outcome in the future relationship negotiations that resulted in a loss of quota share for the EU would be severely damaging to both the Irish and French fishing industries.
It set down the concerns about restriction or denial of access to EU waters and the likely associated displacement of EU fishing activity into Ireland’s zone. It emphasised that Ireland’s position was to require the status quo be maintained for both quotas and access to all fishing grounds enjoyed by the UK and EU vessels.
As you are fully aware, fisheries was one of the most difficult areas of the negotiations. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement sets out new arrangements for the joint management of more than 100 shared fish stocks in EU and UK waters. Under the Agreement, EU fishing vessels will continue to have the current level of access to UK waters at least until 2026, with quota transfers from the EU to the UK across the different stocks over that time.
Fisheries was an extremely important priority for Ireland and the EU as a whole in the negotiations with the UK. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement will unfortunately have an impact on the Irish fishing industry. However, this impact would have been far greater had the Barnier Task Force agreed to UK demands, or had we been in a no deal scenario which would have seen all EU vessels barred from UK waters, and the subsequent displacement into Ireland's fishing zone.
Beekeeping Industry
Ceisteanna (1035)
Niall Collins
Ceist:1035. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has received representations from an organisation (details supplied) in relation to the potential threat to beekeepers here from the small hive beetle further to reports regarding the importation of bees into the UK via Northern Ireland from Italy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13377/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The importation of bees into the UK via Northern Ireland is a UK internal matter.
Animal Diseases
Ceisteanna (1036)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:1036. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if horses entering Ireland are being tested for herpes virus in order to protect the equine industry (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13387/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) is a herpes virus that is widely distributed across the world, including in Ireland. It usually manifests as a respiratory or reproductive disease and occasionally in a paralytic form. The primary risk mitigating measures are biosecurity and vaccination.
My Department continues to monitor the on-going outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus-1 in horses in continental Europe. My Chief Veterinary Officer and relevant officials met with representatives of Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) and the Irish Equine Centre (IEC) to develop an appropriate risk mitigating response. HSI, in consultation with my Department and the IEC have published a protocol for sport horses arriving in Ireland from high risk areas of Europe outlining the measures that horse owners should take to mitigate the risk of spread. I strongly endorse the recommendations in this protocol that requires all those competing horses, on returning to Ireland, to isolate and carry out two tests prior to completing quarantine. This is critical to the protection of our sector.
It should be noted that all horses coming into the country must be accompanied by a health certificate declaring that they clear of clinical signs of infectious disease.
Given the extent that the virus seems to have spread across Europe and the description of the clinical outcome, I would urge all players in the equine industry to respond to the increased risk that this poses to the equine population in Ireland and to double down on their biosecurity practices and measures.
Felling Licences
Ceisteanna (1037)
Seán Sherlock
Ceist:1037. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a felling licence will be issued for a person (details supplied). [13415/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
An application for a tree felling licence for the person named was received in July 2019 and has been referred to my Department’s Ecology Unit. The application site is near six designated sites, including the Ballyhoura Mountains and the Lower River Suir SACs. Therefore, the impact of any felling operations on the sites and the surrounding area, must be carefully considered before deciding on the licence application.
If the applicant wishes, they may provide a Natura Impact Statement (NIS). The NIS must be prepared by a suitably qualified person. A NIS can considerably reduce the time taken to assess the application, as once received, the NIS will be examined by an ecologist within two to three months and a decision will issue once the assessment of the application is complete.
Tuberculosis Incidence
Ceisteanna (1038)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:1038. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the total number and the number by county of cattle condemned as TB reactors in each of the years 2010 to 2020, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13456/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The attached file provides the number of reactors by county from 2010 to 2020. While disease levels are low relative to historical levels, the number of reactors has been gradually increasing since 2016. The pace of deterioration has accelerated in 2020.
Outbreaks of bovine TB within each county require a range of actions to address the problem. Within each county, the TB programme focuses on wildlife, how disease is distributed in the area, contiguous programmes, gamma interferon testing, cleansing and disinfection, testing compliance and frequency and isolation of reactors. Each TB outbreak is investigated by a veterinary inspector to identify the source of infection. In the case of outbreaks involving two or more standard reactors, there is a veterinary visit to advise the herdowner on how to eliminate infection and necessary measures to assist in reducing the risk of recurrence.
My Department is engaged with all stakeholders through the TB Forum. The recently launched Bovine TB Eradication Strategy 2021-2030 is a step towards the eradication of the disease. This new TB Strategy and further information is available on www.bovinetb.ie
Tuberculosis Eradication Programme
Ceisteanna (1039)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:1039. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the expenditure on the TB eradication programme in each of the years 2010 to 2020; the amount of EU funding received in relation to same for each of those years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13457/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
While TB disease is low relative to historical levels, the number of new restrictions and reactor numbers have been gradually increasing since 2016. The pace of deterioration has accelerated in 2020.
My Department is engaged with all stakeholders through the TB Forum to ensure all aspects of the recently launched new Bovine TB Eradication Strategy 2021-2030 are addressed to move toward the eradication of the disease. This new TB Strategy and further information is available on www.bovinetb.ie.
The table attached shows the estimated overall costs of the programme from 2010 to 2020. EU funding has gradually decreased from a high of €12m in 2014. This is due to two factors, that TB is no longer seen as high priority by the EU in terms of co-funding and also because of the deteriorating disease situation here and perceived lack of progress in eliminating it. The EU commitment to funding is expected to reduce even further in the coming years. The farmer contribution is estimated as it includes a cost for testing which is paid directly by farmers to testing veterinary practitioners.
Tuberculosis Incidence
Ceisteanna (1040)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:1040. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason for the significant increase in TB infection rates over the past year; the measures he will enact to address this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13458/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Following many successful years of reducing bovine TB levels to the benefit of Irish farmers, there has been concerning increases in the disease since 2016. This has continued in 2020 with further increases in herd incidence and reactor numbers observed. Herd incidence (on a 12-month rolling basis) has breached 4% for the first time since 2012 and reactor numbers have exceeded 22,000 – the highest number since 2009. These trends highlight the need for urgent action by all stakeholders to manage the risk more effectively across all transmission routes.
Whilst the immediate trends are disappointing, good progress has been made over the past decade. During 2009, 5,860 herds were subject to restriction whilst the number in 2020 was 4,624.
The reasons for the recent increase are multifactorial and often relate to a combination of national and local factors. The expansion of the dairy herd since 2015 has played a role in this, since dairy herds, larger herds, farm fragmentation and herds which introduce more cattle are all more at risk of TB breakdowns. Wildlife is also a factor.
As a result, a range of actions are required to address the problem. Within each county, the TB programme focuses on wildlife, how disease is distributed in the area, contiguous programmes, gamma interferon testing, cleansing and disinfection, testing compliance and frequency and isolation of reactors. Each TB outbreak is investigated by a veterinary inspector to identify the source of infection. In the case of outbreaks involving two or more standard reactors, there is a veterinary visit to advise the herdowner on how to eliminate infection and necessary measures to assist in reducing the risk of recurrence.
I recently launched a new Bovine TB Eradication Strategy 2021-2030. The implementation of this strategy will be overseen by the established TB Forum along with support from three working groups on science, implementation and finance, which will ensure that all aspects of the Strategy are addressed. As we are dealing with an infectious disease, the strategy is not set in stone - it is a living document which will be subject to amendment and refinement on an on-going basis. This new TB Strategy is available on www.bovinetb.ie.
At the most recent TB Forum meeting on Thursday 4th February 2021, it was agreed by all stakeholders that extensive consultation within three working groups will develop a shared understanding of how collectively we can reduce TB incidence along with implementing the new TB Eradication Strategy. My Department remains committed to reducing and ultimately eradicating TB in Ireland as demonstrated by the recent sanctioning of an additional 16 field officers to assist the TB Programme.
Attaining TB-free status remains critical from a farm family profitability and sustainability perspective and from a trade perspective at national and at international level. I am acutely conscious that every TB restriction represents a significant emotional and financial challenge to the farm family concerned.
I will work with all stakeholders in ensuring fewer herdowners experience the challenges associated with a TB restriction.
Agriculture Schemes
Ceisteanna (1041)
Niall Collins
Ceist:1041. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will give special consideration to young farmers who started farming since the closure of the last GLAS scheme to be eligible for the traditional farm building scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13470/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Traditional Farm Building Scheme (TFBS) is a complementary measure to GLAS, intended to encourage a holistic approach which increases understanding and management of both the natural and built/cultural heritage present on individual farms. Accordingly, participation in GLAS is the prime eligibility condition. The scheme is administered on behalf of the Department by the Heritage Council.
The current tranche of the Scheme opened on the 4 March 2021 and, to be eligible for the scheme, all applicants must be participants in GLAS. As this is a complementary measure to GLAS, any person who is not a participant in GLAS will be ineligible to apply.
Organic Farming Scheme
Ceisteanna (1042)
Alan Farrell
Ceist:1042. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if consideration has been given to extending the organics scheme criteria for applications due to the sharp rise in the cost of fertiliser; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13490/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I was very pleased to recently reopen the Organic Farming Scheme and I hope that as many farmers as possible are giving consideration to converting. Interested farmers will find a wealth of supporting and informative material available from my Department, Teagasc, the Organic Certification Bodies or from their farm adviser.
Applications will be accepted from all sectors and the scheme is currently open. Successful applications will be determined by a ranking and selection process in the event that the Scheme is over-subscribed. This selection process will allocate marks to each sector with the aim of increasing the area under organic production, while prioritising areas deemed to be in deficit. The areas deemed to be in deficit by the Organic Strategy Group are dairy, tillage and horticulture.
While the ranking and selection process will prioritise these areas, I believe that the level of funding provided for this new Scheme will facilitate the entry of 400-500 new farmers into the organic farming system. This should allow successful applications from enterprises other than those deemed to be in deficit.
The closing date for receipt of applications is 30th April.
Beef Industry
Ceisteanna (1043)
Alan Farrell
Ceist:1043. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the actions he is taking with regard to beef prices for Irish farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13491/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware, prices for beef and other commodities is a commercial matter which I have no role in determining.
I am acutely aware of the recent price volatility in the beef sector and I am conscious that the sector is particularly exposed to factors such as COVID, given its reliance on external trade and the food service and hospitality markets.
My Department and I are working to ensure that business and services to farmers can continue, keeping food and other processing facilities operational, ensuring that payments and commercial activities that are necessary to protect farm incomes can continue. My Department is also working actively to ensure that Irish beef has access to as many high value markets as possible.
The nature of all markets is that the price will fluctuate especially in the case of market disturbance, as has been evidenced during the COVID-19 crisis and that caused by uncertainty surrounding Brexit. My Department provides a range of financial aids to support beef farm incomes and to support economic and environmental efficiency.
The core support for the beef sector under the current RDP is the €300 Million Beef Data and Genomics Programme. In addition to this support, over the last two years, over €200 million of additional supports were made available specifically to the beef sector, including the BEAM and BEEP schemes in 2019 and the Beef Finishers Payment and BEEP-S in 2020.
In Budget 2021, €85 million has been allocated for specific supports for sustainable beef farming. This includes over €40 million for the extension of the BDGP during the transition period before the next CAP. The Beef Sector Efficiency Pilot with an allocation of €40 million is due to be launched shortly.
Bord Bia’s beef market tracker includes a comparison of a prime Irish composite price with a comparative export benchmark price based on a weighted average of our key export markets. This tracker was put in place as a result of the work of Beef Market Task Force and provides an additional measure of transparency in relation to beef prices, which is critically important. The Task Force has also commissioned Grant Thornton to conduct a series of market transparency studies. A meeting of the Taskforce was held this week with an update from Grant Thornton on its work to date.
I addressed the meeting where I expressed my concerns with the manner in which factories informed farmers over last month's price cut and changes to breed bonuses and weight limits.
A key component of the Programme for Government is the establishment of a Food Ombudsman and I am now considering how best to bring this forward and will be consulting with industry on it. I am also considering how to include price transparency and reporting as part of its functions.
I can assure the Deputy that my Department is constantly monitoring the market situation for all agricultural commodities, including beef.
Beef Industry
Ceisteanna (1044)
Alan Farrell
Ceist:1044. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if legislation being introduced for the proposed food ombudsman will have powers to deliver transparency within the beef sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13492/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Programme for Government includes a commitment to:
Ensure fairness, equity, and transparency in the food chain by establishing a new authority called the National Food Ombudsman (NFO) to enforce the Unfair Trading Practices Directive. This new authority will enforce EU-wide rules on prohibited unfair trading practices in the food supply chain and will have powers to enforce this Directive, penalising those who breach regulations.
My Department is taking a two step approach to the establishment of the NFO (or equivalent office). Firstly, a statutory instrument will be drafted to transpose the UTP Directive by the deadline of 1st May 2021. This will provide for an Enforcement Authority which will have the powers as currently provided for in the Directive. The legislative and operational requirements for establishing a new Office of a Food Ombudsman or equivalent that might provide for functions other than those provided for in the UTP Directive are being examined. Primary legislation will be required both to establish this new authority, and to provide for any further powers which may be given to that office.
It is intended that there will shortly be a national consultation process on the possible functions of the NFO.
The UTP Directive does not address issues of price determination or negotiation. While the Programme for Government commitment provides that the new NFO (or equivalent office) will have a specific role in analysing and reporting on price and market data in Ireland, it is important to be aware that this authority will not have a role in determining price.
The Beef Taskforce work on price transparency, and the completion of the three market transparency studies commissioned by my Department, will be an important step towards improving visibility of the complex supply chain which is integral in fostering trust and enhancing supply chain relationships. These studies will act as an important starting point for driving increased transparency. It is more important than ever that we all work together given the unique set of challenges currently faced by the sector. Continued strong and constructive engagement in the Beef Taskforce is key to meeting these challenges.
Agriculture Industry
Ceisteanna (1045)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Ceist:1045. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if recognition will be given to farmers who participate in either aerobic digestion or biomass processes, either on-site or at a larger off-site location for the reduction in their nitrates and phosphate emissions; if so, the way in which this will be administered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13520/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Department of Housing, Planning, Local Government and Heritage is the competent authority for the Nitrates Regulations (S.I. 605 of 2017 as amended). This regulation obliges farmers to keep within the limits set out of 170 kgs of Nitrogen from livestock manure per hectare (or 250 kgs/ N/ha for those who hold a Nitrates Derogation.)
Measures farmers can take to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus on their holding include exporting of livestock manure, renting of additional land or the movement of stock. Where livestock manure is exported off the holding and the correct records are submitted to DAFM within the time period allowed, credit is given for that movement. This includes manure sent to an AD facility.
Similarily, where the livestock manure is processed on the holding through an AD facility, it is also recorded and counted for compliance with the limits of the Nitrates regulations.
Forestry Sector
Ceisteanna (1046)
Jackie Cahill
Ceist:1046. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the average length of time it takes to approve an afforestation application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13547/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Forestry will play an important role in meeting our environmental objectives under the Climate Action Plan and on biodiversity as outlined in the Programme for Government. It is for this reason my Department will be focusing on afforestation applications in the coming weeks. I am mindful of the seasonality associated with afforestation and while other forestry licence types will continue to issue, afforestation will be the priority.
My Department continues to receive and issue forestry licences daily. To 5th March, the area covered by issued afforestation licences so far this year was 903ha. There are currently applications within my Department’s system, covering 9,600ha, which are at various stages of processing, from the initial application steps, to ready for decision. In addition, there is another 4,500ha already approved and available to plant immediately. It is up to landowners to decide to plant, once they have received approval to do so, and I would encourage anyone that has approval to arrange financial approval, which is a straightforward process completed by their registered forester, and to commence planting.
Decisions that issued for afforestation licences in the last 12 months (March 2020 to February, 2021) were in the system for an average time of nine months. Some licences have issued in much shorter timeframe where they are easier to assess from an environmental point of view and every week there are applicants who receive licences on which applications were made only in the previous two months. However I accept that there are also those that are too long in the system and we are not meeting our output targets.
The MacKinnon report which is now being implemented through our recently announced Project Woodland has made some key recommendations on this. One of the main targets will be to bring down the average timeframe from nine months. One of the working groups implementing Project Woodland will be tasked with setting new milestones and targets for output.
We have now set ourselves a target of issuing 4,500 forestry licences in 2021, which includes afforestation, roads and felling. A new structure, under Project Woodland, is being introduced to ensure that the current backlog is addressed and that a new impetus is brought to woodland creation in Ireland. This Project will involve a review and refresh of our processes and procedures and will include outside stakeholder participation to bring an independent perspective. It will be a task-driven process, with clear deliverable and milestones, and I anticipate that we will reach our 4,500 target this year.
In conclusion, I would like to reiterate my commitment to supporting afforestation and to encourage farmers to look at tree planting as a complementary income stream to a productive farming enterprise.
Forestry Sector
Ceisteanna (1047)
Jackie Cahill
Ceist:1047. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the total expense of the additional ecologists recruited by his Department had been compared in terms of value for money to the costed woodland environmental planning grant proposal submitted to his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13548/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The introduction of a new requirement for an Environmental report supported by a Planning grant is one of the recommendations in the Mackinnon report. The implementation report by Jo O’Hara, accepted by me, will now be advanced under Project Woodland.
This, however, is a completely separate issue to the funding of ecologists which are an integral part of the licence approval process.
Therefore, there has been no comparison made between the amount of money spent on ecologists and any proposal for planning grants, nor would it be appropriate to do so. Any Natura Impact Statements prepared by the sector, while providing a time saving to the Department, would still require to be examined by Department ecologists and the Department ecologists would be required to prepare an Appropriate Assessment Determination for any site where Appropriate Assessment is required.
Beef Industry
Ceisteanna (1048)
Jackie Cahill
Ceist:1048. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the plans in BEAM 2019 for farmers who do not reach 5% stocking rate reduction; if farmers can obtain a pro-rata payment rate at a reduced rate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13549/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The objective of the Beef Exceptional Aid Measure (BEAM) was to provide temporary exceptional adjustment aid to farmers in the beef sector in Ireland subject to the conditions set out in EU Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1132.
BEAM participants gave a commitment to reduce the production of bovine livestock manure nitrogen on the holding by 5% for the period 1st July 2020 to 30th June 2021 as compared with the period 1st July 2018 to 30th June 2019 as recorded on the Department's AIM system. Article 1 (3) of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1132 clearly sets out that measures taken by Ireland shall be aimed at reducing production or restructuring the sector.
BEAM was funded by a combination of Exchequer support and EU aid with the European Commission providing €50 million.
There is provision in the terms and conditions for those who come close to meeting the 5% reduction. Participants who fail to reach at least a 4% reduction will see their BEAM payment recouped in full. There will be a partial recoupment of payments where a reduction of between 4% and 5% is achieved as set out below.
- Reduction less than 4% = 100% recoupment
- Reduction of 4% or more but less than 4.4% = 80% recoupment
- Reduction of 4.4% or more but less than 4.6% = 60% recoupment
- Reduction of 4.6% or more but less than 4.8% = 40% recoupment
- Reduction of 4.8% or more but less than 5% = 20% recoupment
In light of the difficulties some farmers are experiencing in meeting this reduction arising from COVID-19 Government Public Health restrictions, I sought approval from the EU Commission to bring in an alternative reference period for those who require it. My Department will be offering farmers the opportunity to select a later reduction year under BEAM if they were finding it difficult to deliver the 5% bovine manure nitrogen reduction in the period 1st July 2020 to 30th June 2021.
The alternative will be the calendar year 2021 for those who choose it. My Department will soon be in contact with participants giving them the opportunity to opt for this later 12 month period if they wish.
Beef Industry
Ceisteanna (1049)
Jackie Cahill
Ceist:1049. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a method (details supplied) for calculating the organic output stocking rate can be used for the 2019 BEAM scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13550/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The objective of the Beef Exceptional Aid Measure (BEAM) was to provide temporary exceptional adjustment aid to farmers in the beef sector in Ireland subject to the conditions set out in EU Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1132.
BEAM participants gave a commitment to reduce the production of bovine livestock manure nitrogen on the holding by 5% for the period 1st July 2020 to 30th June 2021 as compared with the period 1st July 2018 to 30th June 2019 as recorded on the Department's AIM system. Article 1 (3) of Comission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1132 clearly sets out that measures taken by Ireland shall be aimed at reducing production or restrucing the sector.
The annual nutrient excretion rates for bovines within BEAM are based on the Nitrates Regulations (S.I. No. 605/2017) and table 6 within it. Cattle (0-1 year old) are calculated as producing 24kg of Nitrogen per year. There is no provision within the Nitrates Regulations to exclude bovines less than six months of age.
Teagasc Activities
Ceisteanna (1050)
Michael Ring
Ceist:1050. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the 20 new education officers being recruited by Teagasc will be new recruits or existing employees of Teagasc being moved to these roles. [13552/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I can confirm that the 20 posts represent new fixed term teaching positions over and above the existing staff complement approved for Teagasc.
I understand that Teagasc have panels in place from which they intend to make appointments. In some circumstances, existing contract staff whose contracts are coming to an end can apply for the positions, which have a duration of two years.
The appointment process for these positions is exclusively an operational matter for Teagasc.
Departmental Advertising
Ceisteanna (1051)
Paul Kehoe
Ceist:1051. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the amount spent across his Department on advertising in relation to Covid-19 by month and by media outlet (details supplied) from 1 March 2020 to 1 March 2021. [13554/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department has not incurred expenditure on advertising in relation to COVID-19 during the period 1st March 2020 to 1st March 2021.
Community Enhancement Programme
Ceisteanna (1052)
Jackie Cahill
Ceist:1052. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of the application by Gortnahoe, County Tipperary for the community enhancement programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12508/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Community Enhancement Programme provides small capital grants to community organisations to enhance facilities in disadvantaged areas.
Under the programme, funding is allocated to each local authority area and administered by the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) in each area.
The 2021 Community Enhancement Programme has not yet been launched and will be announced in due course. It is hoped to provide details to LCDCs in early Q2, 2021 and I recommend that groups engage with their LCDC so they are aware of this and any other grants that are available.
In 2020 the programme had two rounds of funding totalling €7m and over 3,000 projects have been approved for funding. Among the projects are childcare groups and playgrounds, recreational groups, community gardens and premises, sports grounds and initiatives that support the elderly.
In reference to the Deputy's question regarding Gortnahoe only two groups in that area applied for funding in 2020. Both of these, the Patricks Gate Residents Association Gortnahoe and Gortnahoe Social & Amenity Association, were approved for funding.
Details of the projects approved for funding during 2020 are available on the Gov.ie website at https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/1e973a-community-enhancement-programme-projects/.
Departmental Schemes
Ceisteanna (1053)
Richard Boyd Barrett
Ceist:1053. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the grants and funding available from the community section of her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12584/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department has been allocated €341 million in the 2021 Revised Estimates, this ensures that we are in a position to further assist communities seeking funding and other supports for important local activities and projects. The Department of Rural and Community Development community grants and funding programmes include:
- The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme, or SICAP, is our country’s primary social inclusion intervention. The current programme began on 1 January 2018 and will run until the end of 2022. SICAP aims to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion and equality. It does this through Programme Implementers, agencies and companies, who work with the most disadvantaged and the hardest to reach in communities. It is a national programme delivered with funding of €190 million over a five-year period from 2018 to 2022. SICAP is overseen by the Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) in each local authority area. Each LCDC agrees annual targets for its area based on local needs. My Department has engaged Pobal to work on its behalf to manage and oversee the reporting of SICAP nationally. SICAP supports a range of groups in society which are disadvantaged and marginalized.
- The Community Services Programme (CSP) currently supports 420 community organisations to provide local social, economic and environmental services through a social enterprise model. CSP funding is provided as a contribution towards the cost of employing staff in these organisations. It meets local service gaps and provides services and facilities that would not be available otherwise. Some €49million is available to support community organisations under the programme in 2021.
- The €4.5 million Community Enhancement Programme aims to streamline funding to communities in need. The programme is administered by Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) in each Local Authority area. Its mission is to provide funding to improve facilities available to communities. The funding is allocated to each Local Authority area by a methodology that reflects deprivation levels in each area. This uses the Pobal-Hasse deprivation index.
- €6.5 million is provided by my Department towards the regeneration of Dublin’s North East Inner City (NEIC) to support the implementation of the Mulvey Report “Creating a Brighter Future” and the NEIC Strategic Plan 2020-2022.
- Community and Voluntary Pillar funding (€565,000): My Department also provides annual funding to members of the Community and Voluntary Pillar to support costs, not funded from any other sources, directly related to the organisations ’contribution to policy-making.
- My Department’s Scheme to Support National Organisations (SSNO) provides multi-annual funding towards core costs of national, community and voluntary organisations that demonstrate good governance and deliver services and supports that have a focus on one or more of the following: addressing poverty, social exclusion and promoting equality. The current scheme commenced on 1 July 2019 and will cease on 30 June 2022. The application process for the current scheme is now closed.
- My Department has responsibility for administration of the Dormant Accounts Fund, including approving the measures to be funded from the Fund which are delivered across a range of Government departments.
- The Seniors Alert Scheme encourages community support for vulnerable older people in our communities, through the provision of personal monitored alarms to enable them to live securely in their homes with confidence, independence and peace of mind. Funding is available under the scheme towards the purchase by a registered community-based organisation of a personal alarm or pendant and is administered on the Department’s behalf by Pobal.
- Up to €75,700 is provided annually by my Department in respect of each Public Participation Network (PPN).
- My Department provides funding to supplement investment by local authorities in their library services. Funding is provided, for example, as a contribution towards the cost of developing library buildings, technological capacity and resources, book-stock and other areas of activity that enhance local library services. Responsibility for the delivery of public library services is generally a matter for each local authority in its capacity as a library authority under the Local Government Act 2001.
- My Department makes an annual payment to Local Authorities towards the cost of additional staff to support the community function in local authorities. It is expected that these posts will continue to support the Local Community Development Committee arrangements and the implementation of Local Economic and Community Plans in particular.
An additional €10million has been allocated to the Stability Fund as part of the revised Resilience and Recovery plan announced in February by the Taoiseach. Further details on how relevant organisations can apply for this funding will be available shortly. The Government is aware of the challenges facing community and voluntary organisations and is committed to working closely with the sector in managing through these, recognising that it will require a whole of Government approach.
- The €5.5m CLÁR programme provides funding for small-scale infrastructural projects in rural areas. While not delivered by the Community Division, CLÁR aims to support sustainable development of designated areas which have experienced significant levels of depopulation. The funding works in conjunction with local funding and on the basis of locally identified priorities. The scheme is delivered mainly by local authorities in consultation with groups in local communities, with applications for some measures submitted directly to the Department.
- Further details relating to eligibility criteria and to making applications for funding are available on gov.ie.
Back to Education Allowance
Ceisteanna (1054)
Louise O'Reilly
Ceist:1054. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the number of students who undertook work experience or internships with State and semi-State agencies under her aegis in 2019; the cost in terms of wages and allowances; and the estimated numerical capacity of State and semi-State agencies to provide work experience and internships on an annual basis. [12961/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The below table outlines the number of students who undertook work experience or internships with State and semi-State agencies under this Department's remit in 2019, the cost in terms of wages and allowances of same and the estimated numerical capacity of State and semi-State agencies to provide work experience and internships on an annual basis:
|
Agency |
Number of students who undertook work experience or internships in 2019 |
Cost in terms of wages and allowances |
Estimated numerical capacity of agency to provide work experience and internships on an annual basis. |
|
Charities Regulator |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Water Safety Ireland |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Western Development Commission |
0 |
0 |
The WDC is currently reviewing the scope to provide work experience and internships, and is examining any applicable compliance issues arising. |
|
Pobal |
Nil |
Nil |
5 |
LEADER Programmes
Ceisteanna (1055)
Michael Creed
Ceist:1055. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the level of demand for grant aid applications received under the LEADER food initiative for artisan, micro and small-food enterprises to date funded under the Rural Development Programme regulation number 1305/2013; the funding allocated for this initiative; the draw down of funding to date; and if applications are still being accepted. [13141/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
€15 million is allocated to the LEADER Food Initiative to support the further development of food and beverage businesses throughout rural Ireland.
The scheme is managed by my Department with funding from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. It is delivered at local level though Local Action Groups (LAGs), using the LEADER methodology. Projects are jointly approved by my Department and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
Since its launch almost three years ago, a total of 109 projects with a combined grant value of over €6.72 million have been approved for funding under the LEADER Food Initiative. In addition, up to €1.68 million is available for the administration costs of the LAGs.
A further 13 applications, with a grant value of over €0.8 million are at earlier stages of the approvals process.
Project payments are drawn down as approved works are completed and claims for payment are submitted by the project promoters. To date, my Department has approved payment claims and associated administration costs totaling €2.36 million in respect of these projects. Final claims for payment under the initiative must be submitted to my Department no later than 30 June 2024.
Applications for financial support under the Food Initiative are still being accepted by the LAGs.
In December 2020, I announced details of a Transitional LEADER Programme which will come into effect from 1 April 2021 and run to the end of 2022. As part of this announcement, I also approved an increase in the rate of aid for private enterprises and commercial community projects, from a maximum of 50% to a maximum of 75%. LEADER Food Initiative projects approved on or after the 1st April 2021, which satisfy the conditions, can also be considered for the increased rate of aid by the LAG.
With almost €10 million of the total LEADER Food Initiative allocation having now been committed, I am confident that the remaining funding will be allocated between now and the end of the Transitional Programme period.
Departmental Schemes
Ceisteanna (1056)
Michael Moynihan
Ceist:1056. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if specific funding schemes will be introduced to support community and voluntary organisations that cannot fundraise and have no source of income at present; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13334/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government is aware of the challenges facing community and voluntary organisations and is committed to working closely with the sector in managing through these, recognising that it will require a whole of Government approach. Along with other broader Government initiatives, my Department has introduced a suite of programmes to support community and voluntary organisations weather the impact of COVID-19.
In 2020, a €50 million support package for the Community and Voluntary Sector, Charities and Social Enterprises was launched by Government and administered by my Department. This funding was made available from the Dormant Accounts Fund and consisted of the COVID-19 Stability Fund and the Innovate Together Fund.
An additional €10M has been allocated to the Stability Fund as part of the COVID-19 Resilience and Recovery 2021 plan announced by the Taoiseach on Tuesday 23rd February. Further details on how relevant organisations can apply for this funding will be available shortly.
In December, my Department launched a €1.7m COVID-19 Emergency Fund, which community and voluntary groups could apply for through their local authorities. This follows on from a previous €2.5m round of this fund which was focussed on groups participating in the Government’s “Community Call” initiative. Successful organisations will be announced shortly.
The Community Enhancement Programme (CEP) provides funding for capital grants towards enhancing facilities available to communities. The funding is allocated to local authorities and administered by Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs). Further details on the 2021 scheme will be announced in Q2 2021.
My Department currently supports 420 community organisations under the Community Services Programme (CSP) to provide local services through a social enterprise model. In response to the difficulties faced by organisations due to COVID-19, my Department developed a €4.75M Support Fund which assists all CSP supported organisations to continue to retain their CSP supported employees on their payroll and also provides assistance for the Employers PRSI contribution during this crisis period and until April 2021. My Department and Pobal, who administer the programme on behalf of my Department, are continuing to monitor the situation closely in light of the current COVID-19 restrictions and the ongoing costs being incurred by organisations
In respect of the Department’s other programmes, funding commitments are being maintained, and though delays may be experienced in delivery for a period of time it is expected that all projects and initiatives will continue when it is safe to do so.
I would encourage organisations to continue to engage with their Local Authority and Local Development Company so that they are aware of funding opportunities as they become available .
Departmental Advertising
Ceisteanna (1057)
Paul Kehoe
Ceist:1057. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the amount spent across her Department on advertising in relation to Covid-19 by month and by media outlet (details supplied) from 1 March 2020 to 1 March 2021. [13565/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department's total expenditure on advertising in relation to COVID-19 for the period requested was €1,845. This related to message development for advertising purposes but it was not directly used in any media campaign.