Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
2165. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if any consideration is being given to allow dairy bred calves born in a non-organic farm be purchased and reared in an organic system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44336/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraOrganic production processes are governed by European Union legislation (EU) 2018/848 and all organic farmers must abide by these regulations.
Organic farmers must be licensed by an Organic Certification Body and are subject to an on farm annual inspection as required in legislation.
Under the Organic Regulation a limited number of non-organic animals may only be brought onto an organic farm under certain exceptional circumstances such as for breeding where appropriate animals are not available.
The operator must obtain prior approval from their Organic Control Body prior to doing so as failure to do so will result in financial penalties.
Any proposed amendments to the regulations must be discussed and agreed at EU level.
