Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 June 2022
225. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will support the re-approval of glyphosate in the European Union to support the control and spread of invasive plants such as Japanese knotweed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34777/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, the EU process to consider the possibility of renewal of the current approval for glyphosate is ongoing. This process involves a comprehensive evaluation of all relevant scientific data and a rigorous peer review process led by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
When this process is completed, the European Commission will draft a proposal for voting on at the EU Standing Committee dealing with pesticides legislation. It is now anticipated that this vote may take place towards the end of 2023. The Commission is expected to seek an extension of the current EU approval period, which is due to expire on 15th December 2022, since EFSA recently announced that it would be at least July 2023 before they are able to finalise their scientific conclusions for glyphosate.
Uses against invasive species are being considered as part of the EU decision-making process for glyphosate. I am, of course, very conscious of the need to control invasive plants, such as Japanese knotweed, and I am aware that glyphosate products can play an important role in controlling such plants. These product must be used safely, without unacceptable impacts on human health and the environment. This must always be the foremost concern. The Department will finalise its position on glyphosate based on EFSA’s and ECHA’s scientific opinions and conclusions, as it does for all pesticide substance while remaining cognisant of the importance of this product to the farming sector.
