Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 October 2022
296. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department is currently planning the introduction of payments and compensation to farmers to reduce herd sizes to meet climate emission targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52275/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI established the Food Vision Dairy, and Beef and Sheep Groups this year to advance the actions for the dairy, beef and sheep sector identified in the Food Vision 2030 strategy, taking account of the requirement for the sectors to contribute to achieving the targets set for agriculture emissions in the Climate Act process.
The first priority for both Groups is to fulfil the Food Vision commitment to produce a detailed plan to manage the sustainable environmental footprint of the dairy and beef sector, respectively, including minimising total emissions, while making a positive contribution to improved water quality and biodiversity, in line with Government policy. I have tasked the Groups with providing reports to me as soon as possible. The Groups will then move on to progressing the other important actions for their respective sectors as set out in the Food Vision 2030 strategy.
The Dairy Group has submitted an interim report, which has been published on the Department website, and I look forward to receiving their final report shortly. The interim report on the beef sector is due to be submitted to me in the coming weeks.
I will give careful and full consideration to all of the potential actions outlined in the reports once finalised and submitted to me. I will consult with farm representatives on the outcome of the report.
