Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 June 2022
1956. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the specific new measures that are proposed to encourage higher participation in the organic farming scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29098/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe recent Organic Farming Scheme which closed for application in April 2022 resulted in a total of 380 applications. This was 20% higher than during the scheme opening last year. My priority is to continue to grow the organic sector and I have introduced a number of specific new measures to encourage higher participation in Organic Farming
For the period 2023 – 2027, I have proposed an allocation of €256 million under the new CAP Strategic Plan to continue the development and growth of the organic sector. This is a five-fold increase in funding for the sector compared to the previous CAP period.
I have also introduced changes to the Organic Farming Scheme requirements by reducing the required stocking rate and also by increasing the area paid at the higher rate from 60 hectares to 70 hectares, which I believe will allow for greater participation in organic farming practices.
To ensure that all farmers across the country have access to quality advisory support as they consider converting to organic farming, I have recently provided funding to the Agricultural Consultants Association to increase Advisory support in the sector. This will help remove the knowledge gap which is one of the more significant impediments to participation in organic farming practices.
Teagasc are also currently expanding their Advisory support capacity. The expected results of this funding increase with regard to higher participation in Organic Farming will be visible when the scheme reopens later in 2022.
My colleague Minister of State Hackett is also leading a trade mission to Germany in July 2022 to coincide with Biofach, the largest organic trade fair in Europe. Routes to market for organic produce is a key consideration for farmers that are contemplating converting to organic farming and this trade mission is well resourced to ensure all market opportunities are maximised and visible to potential scheme participants.
The Department is pursuing a wide suite of actions and has deployed significant targeted resources to maximise participation in Organic farming. Our commitment to achieve the 7.5% Programme for Government target is gaining in momentum and is evidenced by the most recent figures which yielded a 20% increase in applicants compared to 2021.
We continue to engage proactively with industry stakeholders and explore all opportunities to pursue a solutions based agenda.
