Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 May 2022
144. Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide a comprehensive update on the work currently underway to assist farmers contribute to the effort to reduce climate-based emissions; the ongoing direct input that farmers have on proposed efforts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26838/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, the agriculture sector is required to required to reduce emissions by between 22% - 30% by 2030, based on a 2018 baseline of 23MT CO2 eq.
This is a challenging target for the sector, but it is also a target that will present opportunities for Irish farmers. Significant work has been done to date to develop a pathway to achieve the emissions reductions required.
The Teagasc Marginal Abatement Cost Curve was the original source, and it has been built upon by both Ag Climatise and the Climate Action Plan of 2021. I recently established a Food Vision 2030 dairy group to set out specific actions on how emissions reduction in the dairy sector will be achieved. A beef and sheep group with a similar objective will soon be established.
The advisory services both within Teagasc and the private network, are working closely with farmers to advise them of the transition necessary on their farms. Teagasc has establishment a network of model farms under their signpost programme.
These farms are considered best in class when it comes to climate smart agriculture, supporting peer to peer learning between farmers.
One of the most important actions farmers can take is to reduce their dependence on chemical nitrogen. I have put in place additional supports this year to encourage farmers to transition to clover and multispecies swards. The Department to continues to financially support the uptake of low emissions slurry spreading technology through TAMS. These measures are important enabling actions to support the chemical nitrogen reduction required.
A whole-of -sector, whole-of-Government approach will be needed to ensure the agriculture sector achieves its climate objectives. Farmers will need to be given time as well as consistent and clear advice on the changes required. I am confident that our farmers will take a leadership role in meeting our climate ambitions and I will support them throughout this process.
