Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 January 2022
208. Deputy Brian Leddin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the absolute and relative emissions reductions from the Beef Data and Genomics Programme since it was introduced in 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3670/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP) formed part of Ireland's Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 and was extended to the transition period of 2021/22. The objectives of the measure are to lower the intensity of GHG emissions by improving the quality and efficiency of the national beef herd and to improve the genetic merit of the national beef herd through the collection of data and genotypes of selected animals which will allow for the application of genomic selection in the beef herd and to support beef farm incomes.
In the initial years of the scheme (2014-2020), the negative genetic trends that were evident for maternal traits in the past were turned around and 22 KT of reductions have now been realised as result of the actions undertaken by farmers in program. Cumulative gains of 18 KT/year are now being realised as a result of the program, which is then projected to reduce GHG from the suckler herd by 180 KT in 2030 (i.e., some 5.4% of total emissions from the suckler herd at that stage, compared to a 2020 base year). Additional increases in this level of gain are now being sought by ICBF and Teagasc, through incorporation of direct measures of methane into the €uro-Star Indexes. This is expected to deliver an additional 235 KT of gain, which would then equate to some 12.4% of total GHG from the national suckler herd.
It is intended to continue with a breeding programme in the next CAP which will build on the gains of both the BDGP and the BEEP schemes and help realise the additional gains identified by Teagasc and ICBF.
The proposed Suckler Carbon Efficiency Scheme (SCES) will build on significant investments made to date under the Beef Data Genomics Programme (BDGP).
Breeding programmes like the BDGP and the proposed SCEP will continue to play a crucial role in supporting breeding decisions which can help farmers to produce an animal of the required weight at a younger age, so that the improvements are fully reflected in the inventory.
