Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 October 2023
220. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department has carried out a review or impact assessment on the potential implications the changes to the current Sustainable Use of Pesticides Regulation may have on agricultural sectors in the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45652/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraNegotiations on the Commission proposal for a Regulation on the Sustainable Use of Pesticides are ongoing at EU level.
My Department held a public consultation on the Commissions proposal to engage stakeholders and the public on this important matter. Over 300 submissions were received, including significant input from agriculture sectors. The information and views gathered have informed Ireland’s awareness of potential impacts of the proposal and our approach to the negotiations.
Separately, my Department has also commissioned research on the possible impacts for Ireland of the legally binding targets, the availability and feasibility of non-chemical alternative methods and on the implementation of the proposed Integrated Pest Management requirements. This research, which is being conducted by Teagasc, is ongoing.
