Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 April 2022
947. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the provisions that are contained in the new CAP programme for Irish rare breeds (details supplied); and if apart from GLAS, which is closed to new entrants, there are schemes available for promoting farmers to keep Irish rare breeds. [18322/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI believe that it is important to ensure the preservation and protection of rare breed farm animals as a genetic resource for future generations and for the benefit of agriculture in general.
The current Rare Breeds measure in my Department's GLAS Scheme sets out to retain and, where possible, increase populations of specific rare breed animals to ensure their long-term protection and survival. The scheme encourages farmers to register with a relevant breed society and maintain registered purebred stock during the scheme's lifetime. Payment is made in arrears based on the monthly average livestock units of owned registered animals over the previous recording year. It is envisaged that a grant of similar nature will be included in the new CAP programme.
Similarly, a grant continues to be provided to encourage the maintenance of a number of herds of Kerry Cattle and the creation and maintenance of a sufficient reserve of purebred breeding stock in that regard. The Department also provides a small grant to assist organisations conserve and protect Irish rare breed farm animals.
In addition, the Genetic Resources Grant Aid Scheme (GRGAS) has been in place since 1996. The Scheme has an annual call for projects aimed at supporting the conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources for food and agriculture. Funding has been provided for a diverse range of projects such as raising awareness and educating the general public in the importance of genetic resources, for participation in internationally recognised research and collaboration with European and other international partners in the field of animal genetic resources. The effects of this grant aid are far reaching and play a vitally important role in fulfilling Ireland's international obligations in relation to the conservation of animal genetic resources.
I believe these schemes show my commitment towards maintaining rare breeds as an important resource that need to be conserved into the future.
