Written Answers Nos. 21-40
21. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the proposals, if any, to have further discussions at the Council of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers in relation to the need to protect food production in the EU and ensure food security; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34705/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraSupport for sustainable food production in the European Union, and the need to ensure food security for our citizens, is an ongoing and core element of discussions at the Council of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers.
During these discussions I have continually emphasised the central role of the Common Agriculture Policy in underpinning EU agriculture and food security. The CAP must continue to support sustainable food production and the provision of ecosystem services, as well as maintaining its core function of ensuring food security, as outlined in the Treaties. The efficient management of our ongoing transition to a more sustainable farming and fisheries model will support long-term food availability. It is also vitally important that, as we consider longer-term food security and manage this transition, we do not take our current agricultural production systems for granted.
I have also stressed that ongoing support through the CAP is essential to help farmers maintain their resilience as they respond to unstable markets and ensure food security.
In this regard, the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine and its impact on agri-food markets has been a standing item of discussion. Fluctuation in prices both of inputs and for commodities are challenging for farmers to manage, and I have noted and welcomed the Commission’s presentation of support packages to address these difficulties over the last eighteen months. Recently, I have highlighted the need for support for the Irish tillage and horticulture sectors, who are facing particular challenges.
The correct functioning of the Single Market is also a crucial enabler of food security. This has been demonstrated by our experiences through both the Covid and Ukraine crises. I have stressed at the Council that this must continue to be central to the response at EU level.
22. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide on update on the actions he is taking to deliver transparency in the food supply chain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34771/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have undertaken a number of actions to deliver transparency in the food supply chain.
The Agricultural and Food Supply Chain Bill that I introduced to the Dáil in December 2022, and which was signed into law by the President on Tuesday, 11 July, provides for a new independent Office, An Rialálaí Agraibhia, which will be a lead voice in promoting, and indeed enforcing, the principles of fairness and transparency in the agricultural and food supply chain.
This landmark legislation, which I have personally led out on since being in opposition, demonstrates my long-standing commitment to bring increased fairness and transparency to the agricultural and food supply chain. A key Programme for Government Commitment, this office has a particular regard for farmers, fishers and small food businesses.
The Act provides that the new Office will do this in a number of ways:
- it will perform a price and market analysis and reporting function to bring greater transparency all along the agricultural and food supply chain
- it will engage with retailers, processors, wholesalers, farmers, fishers, and others on matters effecting fairness and transparency in the agri-food supply chain,
- as the State’s designated Unfair Trading Practices Enforcement Authority, An Rialálaí Agraibhia will be responsible for ensuring that buyers in the agri-food supply chain do not employ unfair practices in their business-to-business relationship with their suppliers. The Act provides wide ranging powers for authorised officers to investigate Unfair Trading Practices.
In summary, An Rialálaí Agraibhia will bring greater transparency and fairness all along the supply chain.
In addition, pending the establishment of the Regulator and in order to ensure compliance with the deadline for transposition of the EU Directive 2019/633, in April 2021 I introduced regulations under Statutory Instrument No. 198 of 2021 prohibiting a range of unfair trading practices (or UTPs) and established, on an interim basis, the Unfair Trading Practices Enforcement Authority in my Department.
The Enforcement Authority has, since its establishment, worked to increase transparency in the agri-food supply chain through an extensive outreach approach aimed at building stakeholder awareness and understanding of the Regulations and specifically the rights of suppliers and obligations on buyers.
In addition, my Department collects a range of data which it submits to the EU Market Observatories, including processor prices paid to primary producers in a range of sectors. Other animal production data is reported to the CSO including slaughter numbers and carcass weights. Much of this information is also made publicly available on my Department's website, and it forms the basis for the Bord Bia market tracker and the DAFM Pricewatch App for the beef sector.
I am committed to bringing greater transparency to the agricultural and food supply chain to assist primary producers in their decision making and to ensure suppliers all along the supply chain get a fair deal.
23. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine what action is being taken by Government to reduce emissions and prevent even further biodiversity loss in the context of extreme sea temperatures that have been seen this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34758/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Climate Action Plan 2023, launched on 21 December 2023 is the first plan to be prepared under the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021 and following the introduction in 2022, of economy-wide carbon budgets and sectoral emissions ceilings.
The plan implements these carbon budgets and sectoral emissions ceilings and sets out a roadmap for taking decisive action to halve our emissions by 2030 and reach net zero no later than 2050, as committed to in the Programme for Government. Climate Action Plan 2023 sets outs how Ireland can accelerate the actions that are required to respond to the climate crisis, putting climate solutions at the centre of Ireland’s social and economic development.
The 25% sectoral emission ceiling set for the agriculture sector is a hugely challenging target and one that will see our sector change over the coming decade with scientific and technological solutions evolving all the time.
In the Climate Action Plan 2023, Agriculture has focused on three themes: Inputs and additives, husbandry practices and diversification. These measures include reducing chemical nitrogen usage and changing fertiliser type; providing voluntary diversification options for farmers, whilst also improving the environmental dividend from our farmed land. Each of these measures are supported by a range of actions, setting out a viable pathway towards reaching Agriculture’s target.
2023 will see the introduction of a National Fertiliser Database which will allow a range of information on fertiliser products, fertiliser economic operators and end users to be collected. It will also support farmers in reducing usage and engaging with industry led sustainability measurement.
Nitrogen reduction is also supported through the continuation of aid for Low Emission Slurry Spreading Equipment. Over 5,100 applications have been paid in full under the LESS measure of the Targeted Agricultural Modernization Scheme 2 since its launch in 2015. From 2023, funding for this measure will increase from 40% to 60% under the recently launched TAMS 3 scheme. As well as reducing the chemical fertiliser allowances for farmers under Nitrates legislation, the use of protected urea is also being promoted which will help achieve ammonia emissions targets in addition to GHG emissions reductions.
In 2022, my Department established the Food Vision Dairy, and Beef and Sheep Groups. Their purpose was to advance environment and climate actions for the dairy, beef and sheep sectors identified in the Food Vision 2030 strategy, taking account of the requirement for the sectors to contribute to achieving our climate targets. Both the Beef & Sheep and Dairy Groups have submitted their final reports, which have been published. Both groups recognised the contribution that methane mitigating breeding strategies can play in building carbon efficiency traits into our livestock population. For example, we would very much like Ireland to become the first country in the world to genotype all livestock in the country. Reducing slaughter age of cattle is another key recommendation of the Food Vision 2030 Beef and Sheep group. To deliver on these measures the new Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme introduced in 2023 is designed specifically to improve the environmental sustainability and genetic merit of the suckler herd. The overall allocation to this scheme is €256 million plus an additional €4 million for mandatory training for all participants over the next five years.
Diversification opportunities are or will be available to farmers include Tillage, Anaerobic Digestion, Organics and Forestry. In tillage, support is being provided through the current CAP Strategic Plan’s Protein Aid Scheme with an increase in aid being provided from €3 million to €7million. Support is also being provided for new tillage land conversion through the Tillage Incentive Scheme and carbon sequestration by the tillage sector through the Straw Incorporation scheme.
Delivery of a biomethane industry of scale will be important for agriculture but also for industry and the decarbonisation of heat supply. I have recently appointed consultants to help to develop a Biomethane Strategy by Q3 of 2023. There is a five-fold increase in funding for Organic Farming to €256m to triple the area of land farmed organically to 7.5%. The number of farmers farming organically has more than doubled to approximately 4,300. Organic farmers are also eligible for support of 60% in the Organic Capital Investment Scheme (OCIS) and have priority access to the 2023 Agri-Climate Rural Environmental Scheme (ACRES). The TAMS 3 Scheme opened recently consisting of ten different schemes which will support sustainable farming. For example, the Solar Capital Investment Scheme has seen the grant rate increased for Irish farmers from 40% to 60%, with a €90,000 investment ceiling, assisting farmers to generate renewable energy for use in their farming businesses. Overall, the CAP Strategic Plan has seen a significant increase in national co-funding, bringing the total budget to almost €10 billion. This represents a significant increase in funding compared to the previous Rural Development Programme and includes €1.5bn for the new agri-environment scheme – ACRES.
Mitigating agricultural emissions is challenging and will require a sustained effort by all actors in the sector.
24. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine what engagement his Department has had with the Minister and Department of Transport prior and present to the introduction of the European Union (International Labour Organisation Work in Fishing Convention) (Safe Manning) Regulations 2023, SI 315/2023, and its effect on the Irish fishing industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34754/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe European Union (International Labour Organisation Work in Fishing Convention) (Safe Manning) Regulations 2023 (S.I. No 315 of 2023) transpose Article 10 of the Annex to Council Directive (EU) 2017/159 of December 2016 concerning the Work in Fishing Convention 2007 of the International Labour Organisation.
These Regulations apply to any sea-going ship or boat 15 metres in length overall and over registered in the State, of any nature whatsoever, irrespective of the form of ownership, used or intended to be used for the purpose of commercial fishing in the limited and unlimited areas.
The Marine Survey Office (MSO) which is under the remit of my colleague Minister for Transport Eamonn Ryan TD, is designated as the competent authority in the State for the purposes of this Regulation.
My Department has no direct role or responsibility for vessel safety, vessel manning or health & safety on board for crew, this falls under the remit of the MSO and Department of Transport.
However, in recognition of the legislative requirements affecting the crewing of Irish fishing vessels, Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), an agency of my Department, has supported the industry through raising awareness and the provision of professional training.
Additional Courses were provided in both BIM colleges and in mid-2022 BIM undertook a communications campaign to highlight the legislation and the requirement of training and having adequate, qualified crew to ensure safe manning.
These adverts have been running monthly in the trade press since June 2022, were also featured on BIM social media platforms and communications were also displayed in BIM colleges highlighting the legislation and related training.
In addition BIM communicated with past students to highlight the above regulation and the training provided by BIM to enable achievement of the qualification.
If my colleague has any further requests on this regulation he may contact Minister Eamonn Ryan or the Department of Transport directly.
25. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide an update on the further measures his Department will take to address delays in payments; what outstanding challenges there are to ensuring that BISS and ANC payments can be made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34615/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am fully committed to making payments to farmers under the various CAP schemes at the earliest date possible and to the maximum number of farmers possible. I know first hand the critical importance of these payments to all farmers. This commitment to farmers is evidenced in the very high payment rates achieved across all schemes over the last number of years in both EU and Exchequer funded schemes.
The new CAP 2023-2027 has commenced this year and payments will issue in the fourth quarter of the year across a very broad range of schemes. With this being the first year of the new CAP Strategic Plan, a whole range of new schemes are being introduced along with substantial changes to existing schemes, over a relatively short time period.
Almost €1.8bn will be paid to farmers across the country for 2023 schemes. At EU level, Ireland ranks amongst the most efficient Member States in getting payments to farmers expediently and in line with the legal requirements of relevant attendant EU Regulation, and will continue to do so.
The new CAP represents a significant evolution of the policy compared to previous iterations. There are substantial changes to all schemes in 2023, for example, the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) is replaced by the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS). While payment will still be paid based on Payment Entitlements, there are substantial changes to the BISS compared to the BPS, including very positive changes to land eligibility and a new active farmer check. These are all important changes, which will benefit farmers.
A number of new schemes are also being introduced in a short space of time, including the new Complementary Redistributive Income Support for Sustainability (CRISS) Scheme and the Eco-scheme.
The timelines for all schemes, including the planned payment dates in 2023, have been set out taking account of the impact of introducing a whole suite of new schemes and new IT systems to process applications and make payments. The timelines are the best that can be delivered in 2023.
I have committed to reviewing the timelines and the payment dates for next year.
26. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine what action is being taken by Government to tackle the continued extreme deterioration of our water quality driven by increased nitrates and our industrial agriculture model; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34757/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn June the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) published its Water Quality in 2022 Indicator’s Report. That report sets out that, and I quote, “there has been no significant change in the biological quality of our rivers or lakes in 2022.” However, the EPA’s data also shows that the nutrient concentrations in many of our waterbodies remain too high.
As a State, we all have to work together to reduce the levels of nutrients in our water. This responsibility extends to farmers, but it also extends to private dwellings on septic tanks as well as Uisce Eireann who are also investing to improve water quality.
I fully accept agriculture is the largest pressure on water quality, however this is directly related to the fact that agriculture is the dominant land use in this country and accounts for approximately two thirds of the land within the State.
Ireland does not have an industrial agricultural model. Ireland has a family farm model with modest farm sizes compared to many of our global competitors.
Farmers have made very significant efforts to address water quality in recent years, however these changes will take time before their full impact on water quality becomes evident.
From an Irish perspective, we need to work to improve this situation from an environmental perspective, but also to ensure the long-term sustainability of our agri-food sector.
In May, I established the Agriculture Water Quality Working Group involving all the key stakeholders across the agri-food sector. It has three broad objectives:
1. To improve awareness of the impact individual actions can have on water quality;
2. To improve compliance with existing rules; and,
3. To consider what new measures should be introduced to drive improvements in water quality.
The Group has met three times to date. It will continue to meet regularly over the coming months as work on the Interim Review of Ireland’s Nitrates Action Programme progresses and as we prepare for the next Nitrates Action Programme, commencing 2026.
To achieve environmental progress we must bring people on the journey with us.
I remain fully committed to working with farmers to improve our water quality so we can maintain the maximum stocking rate possible.
27. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if flexibility will be offered to advisers responsible for scoring land under the ACRES scheme, considering the 12-day delay in the scoring app being launched and ongoing reports of advisers being under significant pressure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34614/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Agri-Climate Environment Scheme (ACRES) is Ireland’s flagship agri-environment scheme under the CAP Strategic Plan 2023 – 2027. It will pay farmers €1.5 billion over its lifetime, which is the largest sum ever committed to an agri-environment scheme in Ireland. I am pleased to have approved entry to the scheme to over 46,000 farmers earlier this year. A key feature of ACRES is the introduction of a results-based system that rewards farmers for committed environmental effort by linking payments to the quality of environmental outcomes delivered.
Participants in the ACRES eight Cooperation Project (CP) Zones will receive results-based payments, whereas those in the ACRES General stream could have chosen results-based actions on application. All these lands will be scored over the summer months, by approved ACRES advisors, who have completed the mandatory in-field scorecard training.
Scoring of land at the correct time of the year is an integral part of the results-based payment model and ensures the correct payment rate is assigned to the land in question. It is essential that all lands are scored by 31 August, which is the best period for scoring, capturing all the indicator species. In addition to this, the submission of completed scorecards in this timeframe facilitates the commencement of payments later this year.
In addition, farmers participating in ACRES (CP) will gain a better understanding of the environmental assets found on their land, once scoring takes place during the summer months. This information will be of assistance to them, when it comes to considering any Non-productive Investments (NPIs) that might be employed. The choice of the appropriate NPI can assist with increasing the score achieved and therefore a higher payment in future years. The application system for NPIs is planned to open later this year.
It is also important to acknowledge that farmers can use any approved ACRES advisor to submit these scorecards and in this regard, my Department has outlined a procedure for transfer of any ACRES contract from one approved ACRES advisor to another.
To also facilitate the streamlining of submission of scorecards my Department has developed a phone app (AgriSnap) and scorecards are being submitted daily by advisors to my Department using the app.. The enhanced phone app catering for scorecards was released on 9 June.
28. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has had any engagement with the fishing community regarding the statutory instrument which came into effect on 1 July 2023, requiring fishing vessels longer than 15 m to have a fully qualified second skipper on board at all times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33817/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Marine Survey Office (MSO) which is under the remit of my colleague Minister Eamonn Ryan and the Department of Transport, is designated as the competent authority in the State for the purposes of this Regulation.
My Department has no direct role or responsibility for vessel safety, vessel manning or health & safety on board for crew, this falls under the remit of the MSO and Department of Transport.
However in recognition of the legislative requirements affecting the crewing of Irish fishing vessels BIM, an agency of my Department, has supported the industry through raising awareness and the provision of professional training.
Additional Courses were provided in both BIM colleges and in mid-2022 BIM undertook a communications campaign to highlight the legislation and the requirement of training and having adequate, qualified crew to ensure safe manning. These adverts have been running monthly in the trade press since June 2022, were also featured on BIM social media platforms and communications were also displayed in BIM colleges highlighting the legislation and related training. In addition BIM communicated with past students to highlight the above regulation and the training provided by BIM to enable achievement of the qualification.
If my colleague has any further requests on this regulation he may contact Minister Eamonn Ryan or the Department of Transport directly.
29. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department has had discussions with the EPA regarding reported anomalies in its water quality report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34724/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraLast year Ireland secured a nitrates derogation covering the years 2022-2025. The Commission's implementing decision granting that derogation included the condition that Ireland must use specific criteria to conduct a two-year water quality review.
Where that review shows there are polluted waters, or waters at risk of pollution that are not showing signs of improvement, or where worsening trends have occurred over the period 2021 - 2022, the maximum stocking rate for derogation farms must be reduced from 250kg to 220kg livestock manure nitrogen per hectare from 2024.
The EPA undertook this review and provided the results as an Annex to their main report on Nitrogen and Phosphorous concentrations in Irish waters. In accordance with the Commission's Implementing Decision, the EPA review is based on the Nitrates Directive monitoring network.
The EPA also maintain a Water Framework Directive (WFD) monitoring network. This larger network provides a more comprehensive dataset than the Nitrates Directive monitoring dataset.
The difference in the datasets used gives rise to anomalies in the EPA's report for the two-year water quality review; areas that, based on previous water quality monitoring publications by the EPA, would have been expected to fail the Commission's tests have not been included.
If the more comprehensive WFD dataset was used for the Commission's two-year review, more land would likely be bought into the area where derogation farmers will have to reduce their stocking rates. This issue and the anomalies in the report were discussed by the EPA with officials from my Department as well as the Agriculture Water Quality Working Group before the EPA's report was submitted to the European Commission. The EPA acted in accordance with the relevant Commission framework.
The environmental assessment for the interim-review of the Nitrates Action Programme may determine that the best available and most comprehensive dataset is required to be used for the two-year water quality review. Therefore, the map the EPA have published should not be considered to be the final map of land moving to the maximum stocking rate of 220kg N per hectare from 2024.
In March I committed to engaging with the European Commission to seek flexibility regarding their conditionality around the two-year water quality review. This engagement has taken place and will continue, however there is no guarantee that the Commission will agree to re-opening its decision.
30. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will devise a scheme to help farmers with particularly old tractors, which are in constant use but in a poor state of repair, to upgrade to newer and safer tractors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34484/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraA suite of ten schemes are available under TAMS 3 . Nine of these schemes were launched under the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 and are co-funded under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD). With the final Scheme Women Farmers Capital Investment Scheme launched under CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023-2027.
These schemes were launched between 22 February 2023 and 21 June 2023 and the first tranche closed on 30 June 2023, with the Tranche 2 opening on the 1 July.
As part of the launch of the launch of the TAMS 3 scheme, I have had a wide range of new investments included under the suite of ten TAMS 3 schemes. However, the budget for the Targeted Agriculture Modernisation scheme (TAMS) is now fully committed and support for replacement tractors is not included.
My Ministerial colleague, Martin Heydon T.D., who has specific responsibility for Farm Safety recently launched the National Farm Safety Measure 2023 which provides 60% grant aid for the purchase of quad bike helmets and replacement PTO shaft covers.
Regardless of the age of the tractor it is important that farmers invest in repair and maintenance to ensure that tractors are in a safe operating condition. No farmer should be putting themselves or others at risk of a serious incident by operating tractors that are not correctly maintained. It is the responsibility of every farmer to maintain all of their tractors and machinery in a safe operating condition.
31. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the target for afforestation in 2023; the number of hectares of new afforestation to date; and if he intends to revise this target. [34735/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Deputies may be aware the new and ambitious €1.3bn Forestry Programme 2023-2027 will replace the previous Programme which expired at the end of 2022. The new Programme will benefit farmers, rural communities and the overall climate and environment. Subject to State Aid approval from the European Commission and the completion of the ongoing Strategic Environmental Assessment/Appropriate Assessment (SEA/AA) process, this will support the largest, most farmer-friendly investment in forestry in the history of the State.An afforestation target of 8,000 hectares per year has been set out in the Climate Action Plan. In recognition of this target and of the need for planting activity to continue during the State Aid assessment of the Forestry Programme, my Department engaged with the Commission last December to secure an interim solution. This resulted in the launch of the interim Afforestation scheme. Under this scheme those with valid licence approvals issued before the end of 2022 could avail of the current planting season under the higher grant and premium rates proposed to be paid under the new Forestry Programme. Under these new rates forestry premiums have increased by between 46% and 66%, and in addition farmers receive 20 years of premium payments, compared to 15 years of premium payments for non-farmers.
A potential 7,000 hectares were eligible to opt into the interim Afforestation scheme. A total of 288 applications have been approved representing 1,750 hectares. Of the 1,750 hectares approved for afforestation, we have received notifications that almost 1,213 hectares of planting has completed, and that planting has commenced on a further area of 244 hectares. It is clear therefore that 8,000 hectare target will not be reached this year, however I remain confident that the attractive and increased rates under the new Programme, coupled with 20 year premiums for farmers, will encourage strong uptake once the Scheme is launched. I expect that this will continue in the years ahead as the benefits and complementary nature of forestry to farming is better understood and as communities and public authorities engage with the new Programme.
32. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps his Department is taking to encourage young people into the agricultural sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34769/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe challenge of generational renewal and attracting young farmers in Agriculture is widely recognised both at national and EU level.
I am supporting succession planning through tangible and strategic measures on farm. These measures encourage the next generation to commence farming, to enter partnerships and / or take ownership of a farm when the time is right to do so.
Food Vision 2030, our 10 year agri-food strategy, also recognises the importance of young farmers and proposes a number of actions including maintaining the current level of support, promoting succession planning & land mobility, increasing education and promoting the diversity of careers in the agri-food sector.
The growth in our primary agricultal sector has seen a rise in the number of jobs for skilled young graduates. With this, young people see agriculture as a viable career both inside and outside the farm gate. This is evidenced by the increasing number of college courses in our HEI's as well as Teagasc and other private colleges across the country.
Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027 reaffirms our commitment to the next generation of farmers, reflecting the need for skilled and innovative young farmers to respond to societal demands for quality food and environmental public goods. Generational renewal is critical to ensure a bright future for the agri-food sector.
Under the new CAP Ireland will implement a Complementary Income Support for Young Farmers (CISYF) dedicating 3% of the direct payments ceiling (€1.186bn) to help young farmers establish their farming business. Successful applicants under CISYF are expected to receive payments averaging approximately €175 per hectare, subject to a maximum of 50 hectares per successful applicant, over the five years of the scheme.
A National Reserve will also operate in each year of the new CAP from 2023 to 2027 to provide support to the two mandatory categories of young farmer and new farmer.
Under TAMS, capital investment measure, a higher grant rate of 60% for qualified young farmers will continue to be available. Over €185m has issued to over 7,000 young farmers to date in TAMS supports.
My Department continues to support and further develop collaborative farming models, with grants available for registered farm partnerships. A new initiative for older farmers, providing financial support towards the costs incurred for independent legal and financial advice on succession planning and navigating a pathway to retirement, is also being considered.
At national level, several agri-taxation reliefs are available worth some €200m per year which aim to facilitate succession and assist land mobility.
With regards to access to finance, one of my priorities is to ensure adequate availability and access to long-term investment finance for young farmers. The recent Future Growth Loan Scheme (FGLS), co-funded by my Department, saw strong demand with circa 1,600 loans to the value of €237m issued to farmers. Building on this success, a new €500 million Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme (GSLS) will launch later this year. This scheme will provide for long-term investment by SME's and will be available to farmers, fishers, foresters, and food businesses and will assist young farmers in particular.
In addition, Teagasc agricultural education activities continue to equip young farmers with the knowledge to build successful careers.
I have also provided significant support to initiatives such as the Land Mobility Service.
Supporting young farmers remains a priority. I met with Macra only this week and I will continue to actively engage with all stakeholders on this issue.
33. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the level of advertising by public bodies funded by his Department. [34714/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe details requested are an operational matter for the State Bodies themselves. As such I have referred this query to the State Bodies under the aegis of my Department and have asked that they respond directly to the Deputy within an appropriate timeframe, typically 10 days.
35. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the interaction there has been with his Department and other Departments about the schemes currently under way and in the pipeline for renewable electricity production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34672/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile overall national energy policy formation is the direct responsibility of the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC), my Department works closely with DECC on energy related matters from an agricultural perspective, as well with a wide range of industry and other stakeholder groupings.
The importance of increasing renewable energy generation across all sectors of the economy has been highlighted through the inclusion of ambitious targets for this area in the recently released Climate Action Plan 2021 - Securing Our Future.
I see the role of Irish farmers in renewable energy systems as three-fold :
• Establishing energy efficiencies on-farm,
• Through deployment of renewable energy at farm level; and
• As a supplier of biomass/ bio-energy feedstocks.
The main support for farmers provided by my Department wishing to invest in renewable energy is the TAMS 3 Solar Capital Investment scheme. This launched on 22nd February 2023 and is proving to be a hugely successful scheme. The new TAMS is closely aligned to our climate and sustainability needs through continued and enhanced support for renewable energy.
• To help encourage on-farm renewable technology uptake and usage, grant aid is provided through TAMS to assist farmers in maximising their contribution to the production of renewable energy through the installation of Solar PV technology along with battery storage on Irish farms. There is an overall budget of €370 million for the TAMS 3 scheme over its lifetime to end-2027. The solar scheme is ring fenced with its own investment ceiling of €90,000 and will be grant aided at the enhanced rate of 60%.
• Applicants under TAMS 3 can receive the Clean Export Guarantee payment for any electricity spill-over that may occur on a given day as this is funded directly by the electricity companies. However, they are not eligible for any other payment, such as the Clean Export Premium, as it would be double funding of the investment.
• Adoption of sustainable energy practices at farm level, including energy efficiency, deployment of renewables at farm level and the provision of agriculture feedstocks for renewable energy generation is a key climate pillar for the agriculture sector.
The on-farm renewable energy generation activities of our farmers will contribute in a positive way to the de-carbonisation of the energy system, providing a diversification opportunity for farmers who remain committed to playing their part in achieving our national climate change emission reduction goals.
36. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to outline the details and payments associated with the suckler carbon efficiency programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34768/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe objective of the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP) is to provide support to suckler and beef farmers to improve the environmental sustainability of the national beef herd. The programme aims to build on the gains delivered in recent years through the Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP) and the Beef Environmental Efficiency Programme (BEEP) by improving the genetic merit of the Irish suckler herd.
I am confident that SCEP will drive further improvements in our already world-class suckler and beef herds. It will also be a crucial income support for these farmers.
There are four main eligibility requirements for SCEP, an applicant must as set out below:
• Be farming a holding in respect of which a valid BISS application is submitted to the Department on a yearly basis and on which all land parcels are declared.
• Be a member of the Sustainable Beef and Lamb Assurance Scheme (SBLAS) prior to 16 October 2023 and have continued participation for the duration of the programme.
• Calve at least 50% beef breed animals of the reference number between scheme year 1 (01 July 2022 and 30 June 2023) and every scheme year thereafter.
• Attend the SCEP training course by 15 November 2024.
There are five mandatory actions of SCEP as set out below:
• Action 1 - Eligible Bull/Eligible AI
• Action 2 - Female Replacement Strategy
• Action 3 – Genotyping
• Action 4 - Weighing and Submission of Weights to ICBF
• Action 5 – Calving Details and Surveys
Provided that all requirements of the programme are met, payment of €225 for the first 15 hectares and €180 for the remaining hectares up to the maximum payable area (MPA) will be made. In order to avail of the full payment, an applicant must have at least enough determined eligible forage hectares under their BISS application each year to match their MPA. If the determined eligible forage area is less than the MPA but 80% or above, the payment will be based on this eligible forage area.
The full term and conditions of the programme can be found on the gov.ie website under the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP) section.
37. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide an update on the nitrates derogation and recent discussions regarding the proposed changes to the current levels which are in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34491/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraLast year Ireland secured a Nitrates Derogation covering the period 2022-2025. In granting that derogation, the European Commission attached increased conditionality, including a requirement to conduct a two-year water quality review.
The EPA's recently published report for this review shows that based on the Commission's conditionality, significant areas of the county will see their maximum organic nitrogen usage reduce from 250 kg to 220 kg of livestock manure nitrogen per hectare from January 2024.
Since Spring 2022, my Department has engaged with stakeholders on this matter. My Department has communicated the need for Ireland to show significant improvements in water quality if we are to maintain our nitrates derogation in the long-term.
The Government fully recognises farmers have made significant efforts to address water quality in recent years, however these changes will take time before their full impact on water quality becomes evident.
The challenge is that the level of nutrients in many of our waters remains too high as evidenced by reports from the Environment Protection Agency. This is increasingly relevant to discussions with the European Commission, as Ireland is very unlikely to meet its 2027 Water Framework Directive target of having all waterbodies in at least good ecological status, with only some minor exceptions being permitted. Most, if not all, other EU Member States will be in a similar situation. However very few of them are availing of a nitrates derogation.
The European Commission is not obliged to grant any Member State a nitrates derogation and to do so they must be assured that derogation will not compromise achievement of the Nitrates Directive’s objectives of reducing and preventing water pollution caused by agriculture.
Ireland is currently one of just three EU Member States in receipt of a nitrates derogation. The other two Member States are The Netherlands, and Denmark.
The likely scenario is that post-2025, Ireland will be one of at most two Member States seeking, or in receipt of, a nitrates derogation.
In March I committed to engaging with the European Commission to seek flexibility regarding their conditionality around the two-year water quality review. This engagement has taken place and will continue, however there is no guarantee that the Commission will agree to re-opening its decision.
I remain committed to working with farmers to improve water quality so Ireland can retain the maximum stocking rate possible.
38. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he remains satisfied that productive agricultural land currently contributing to food production in this country is not decommissioned in favour of climate change objectives and that all possible scientific and dietary means are used to ensure carbon reduction without affecting the food-productive capacity of this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34622/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe issue of maintaining food production has been the subject of much discussion in the context of the Government's economy-wide target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 51% by 2030. My position has been consistent- each sector, including agriculture, will need to play its part to achieve this target.
In the Agriculture chapter of the Climate Action Plan 2023, I have proposed measures around three themes: inputs and additives, husbandry practices, and developing opportunities for diversification. In practical terms, the types of actions that the sector is undertaking include reducing chemical nitrogen usage and changing fertiliser type, providing voluntary diversification options for farmers, while also improving the environmental dividend from our farmed land. Each of these measures will be supported by a range of actions, setting out a viable pathway towards reaching our targets.
Some livestock farmers may take up diversification options that are provided as part of our climate transformation. However, given that Ireland is among the most food secure countries in the world, I remain confident that there is no risk to food security.
Indeed, one of the key areas available to farmers to diversify into is tillage. Through such diversification we will exploit the opportunity for import substitution of cereals and proteins adding to the sustainability of Irish produced feed and creating further opportunities for sustainable food production.
We have seen the key role the Economic Breeding Index has played in dairy production over the last decade. I am keen to explore how we can, with the necessary commitment of all stakeholders, extend the work we have already done to improve the genetic profile of the herd in recent years.
My ultimate aim is to future proof our beef and dairy sector for the benefit of our industry, the environment and our farm families who are the backbone of the sector and rural communities. Ireland's agri-food sector will continue to be underpinned by our world class dairy and beef sectors, and it is critical that we work collectively to achieve these multiple objectives.
Regarding the Land Use and Land Use Change sector, Ireland's land is currently a net source of emissions. My priority is to ensure that we continue to make progress with respect to reducing emissions both from reducing the management intensity on our organic soils and through achieving our afforestation rates and promoting forest management initiatives.
Ireland cannot achieve climate neutrality without the land use sector supporting this objective over the decades ahead. Change is not easy and does not come overnight. Our recently launched country-wide network of Teagasc supported Signpost Farms will showcase how best practice management techniques can be adopted on a wide range of enterprises and soil types.
39. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to outline the progress being made in his Department’s engagement with the European Commission pertaining to the forestry programme 2023 – 2027; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34530/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputies may be aware, the next Forestry Programme is subject to State Aid approval from the European Commission.
Initially, I met with Commissioners Virginijus Sinkevicius and Janusz Wojciechowski last year to update them on Irish forestry, particularly on the extensive public consultation undertaken for the Shared National Vision for Trees, Woods and Forests in Ireland until 2050 and the subsequent development of the new Forest Strategy and Forestry Programme 2023-2027.The previous State Aid Guidelines in the agricultural and forestry sectors and in rural areas expired on 31st December 2022 and were replaced with a revised version as of 01st January 2023. This meant that a formal application for State Aid could not have been submitted to the European Commission until the revised guidelines were in place, i.e. before January 2023.
However, cognisant of the importance of implementing the new Forestry Programme as early as possible in 2023, and of the constraint that we could not submit a formal application for State Aid in 2022, we secured the agreement of the European Commission to facilitate a pre-notification in November 2022.The European Commission advised that the most efficient route to full State Aid approval is by way of close engagement between my Department and the Commission, in advance of the formal notification for State Aid approval. My Department, therefore after an extensive pre-notification process, submitted a Formal State Aid Notification on the 20th April 2023. The Commission are currently reviewing this formal notification in detail, to decide whether the proposed Forestry Programme is compatible with EU State Aid Rules. As part of their considerations, the Commision has conducted an interservice consultation with other Directorate Generals (DGs) with a legitimate interest in the proposal. I can advise that to this effect, my Department has now received further written correspondence relating to this notification on the 6th and the 21st of June 2023.
My Department has responded comprehensively to the correspondence received on the 6th June, which covered afforestation and creation of woodlands. My Department has also replied to the further correspondence received on the 21st June which covers support schemes.My Department officials are fully engaged with the Commission in order to secure this formal State Aid approval as soon as is allowable. Due to this ongoing engagement , it is therefore not appropriate to comment further on the details of the correspondence exchanged at this time.
However, I would like to highlight that as per EU Council Regulation 2015/1589, Article 32, the Commission shall in co-operation with my Department, publish details pertaining to their final decision in the Official Journal of the European Union.
This will be completed after the ongoing State Aid processes are concluded. I would also draw attention to the fact that my Department officials are bound by Article 30 with regards to Professional secrecy within this State Aid process.I have also engaged in productive bi-lateral discussions regarding the Forestry Programme with the Commission, alongside my colleague Minister Eamon Ryan on the 20th June 2023.
This included intensive engagements with First Vice President Timmermans and Commissioner Sinkevicius, at which the importance of the forestry programme to our climate change and environmental targets was emphasised. Noting the urgency of this matter, I have also wrote to Commissioner Sinkevicius on the 04th July, following up on our recent meeting. This again highlighted the urgency of the matter and to note the enormous potential contained in our programme to help address our ambitious national climate and biodiversity targets.
I would like to assure the House that the launch of the Forestry Programme 2023-2027 is a matter of the utmost priority for me and my Department officials. All efforts are directed towards securing formal state aid approval as soon as is allowable, so that we can deliver lasting benefits for climate change, biodiversity, wood production, economic development alongside quality of life.
40. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the measures that will be implemented to ensure that adequate supports are in place to continue to assist in the production of safe, high-quality and sustainably produced food due to this sector’s importance in providing food supply at home and in export earnings which are critical to the national economy and employment throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34706/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraFood Vision 2030, published in August 2021, is Ireland’s shared stakeholder-led strategy for the agri-food sector. One of the standout aspects of Food Vision is that it has adopted a food systems approach. Food Vision aims for Ireland to be a world leader in sustainable food systems. This means that it will be profitable throughout (economic sustainability), have a positive or neutral impact on the natural environment (environmental sustainability), and have broad based benefits for society (social sustainability).
Food Vision 2030 consists of 22 goals and 218 actions that are grouped around the following four high-level Missions for the sector to work towards:
1. A Climate Smart, Environmentally Sustainable Agri-Food Sector
2. Viable and Resilient Primary Producers with Enhanced Well-Being
3. Food that is Safe, Nutritious and Appealing, Trusted And Valued at Home and Abroad
4. An Innovative, Competitive and Resilient Agri-Food Sector, Driven by Technology and Talent
Each of these missions are well thought out, with ambitious goals rooted in a strongly practical approach to what needs to be achieved.
Mission 3 is for Food that is Safe, Nutritious and Appealing, Trusted and Valued at Home and Abroad, with a particular focus on the importance of trade. The measures outlined in this Mission aim to build on Ireland's global reputation as a trusted supplier of high quality, safe, sustainable food to consumers at home and abroad. This Mission has 4 goals, 37 actions and aims to prioritise coherent food and health policies for better health outcomes, to enhance consumer trust in our food system, to create value add through insight, innovation and product differentiation, and to further develop market and trade opportunities both at home and abroad.
Diversifying and developing markets will continue to be a priority. The Committee believes that the sector can reach €21 billion in exports by 2030, an increase of almost 50% on current export value, with this growth driven by a steady growth in export value rather than volume. Food Vision forecasts a dividend from achieving its vision of Ireland being a world leader in Sustainable Food Systems.
Implementation of Food Vision 2030 is underway, with many of its actions commenced. I have already chaired seven meetings of a High Level Implementation Committee. A formal implementation plan was published and identifies stakeholders, deliverables and a timeframe for each of the actions described in the Strategy. The first Food Vision Annual Report detailing progress was published in May 2023. In terms of overall progress, 6 actions are complete, 64 actions have substantial action undertaken, 142 actions have commenced and are progressing, and 6 actions have not yet commenced.
Through the implementation of measures outlined in Food Vision 2030, my Department will continue to ensure adequate supports are in place to assist in the production of safe, high-quality and sustainably produced food.
