Written Answers Nos. 439-463
439. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will ensure that an ACRES payment is issued to all applicants prior to Christmas, in light of the increasing financial pressure placed on farmers; the number paid to date; the number of applicants still awaiting a payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56071/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the commitment in the Programme for Government, a flagship environmental scheme, namely the Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES), was launched last year under the CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027. There was exceptional demand for entry into the Scheme, which demonstrates the interest of farmers to take on actions to address climate, biodiversity and environmental issues.
While it was initially planned to take in applicants in two Tranches, with 30,000 in Tranche 1, as a Government the decision was made to accept all valid applications submitted, and there are now just under 46,000 farmers actively involved in the Scheme.
The decision to accept all 46,000 applicants has put significant pressure on the ability to pay all participants in 2023.
I do acknowledge the intensive, focused and collective effort from all concerned - from farmers, from my Department, from advisors and from Co-operation Project Teams - in working together on the first year of this new scheme. However, this decision to accept all applicants into Tranche 1 of ACRES has put significant pressure on the ability to pay all eligible participants in 2023.
I want to further acknowledge that farmers were expecting payment before the end of the year, and that my officials have been working to expedite payments, but with the unprecedented numbers, it has not been possible to get all eligible applicants paid in ACRES by the year end.
Payments will commence on December 18th for ACRES General participants. Due to the additional complexity associated with the Co-operation Project (CP) stream, payments for ACRES CP participants are being progressed and will begin to issue in February 2024.
Everything is being done to pay all ACRES applicants who clear pre-payment checks as a matter of priority.
440. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline the engagement to date with the knackery sector to cease the non-collection of dead animals; the steps he is taking to protect both animal and human health as a result of this dispute; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56072/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is currently assessing all options available for the disposal of fallen animals and is actively engaged in developing an interim solution to this situation for both farmers and animal collectors.
The State operates a Fallen Animal Scheme in which the State provides financial supports to assist farmers dispose of animals that die on farm – this support is channelled through the animal collectors to subsidise their cost of rendering. Renderers have recently increased the fees they charge to animal collectors for rendering significantly.
Engagement is ongoing with stakeholders, all options are being considered in order to provide a workable solution to this serious situation.
This includes, but is not limited to, access to Category 1 rendering facilities in Northern Ireland. My Department is working with colleagues in DAERA in Northern Ireland to find workable solutions.
442. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine what efforts are being made to urgently resolve a dispute (details supplied) due to the pressure on the industry and farmers affected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56077/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is currently assessing all options available for the disposal of fallen animals and is actively engaged in developing an interim solution to this situation for both farmers and animal collectors.
The State operates a Fallen Animal Scheme in which the State provides financial supports to assist farmers dispose of animals that die on farm – this support is channelled through the animal collectors to subsidise their cost of rendering. Renderers have recently increased the fees they charge to animal collectors for rendering significantly.
Engagement is ongoing with stakeholders, all options are being considered in order to provide a workable solution to this serious situation.
This includes, but is not limited to, access to Category 1 rendering facilities in Northern Ireland.
443. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department is looking into actions to mitigate the damage caused by adverse weather events (hail) in Wexford in June 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56081/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department monitors the impact of weather on agriculture and farming both nationally and regionally on an ongoing basis. While I empathise with farmers whose crops were damaged by the extreme weather event that occurred in June 2023, my Department is not planning any specific actions to mitigate the localised damage. As the Deputy is aware, these extreme weather events are unfortunately becoming more frequent as a result of climate change.
In the most recent CAP reform proposals, there was the option to allocate some funding towards mutual insurance type schemes to provide cover for weather damage. However, there was little support for this proposal from stakeholders at the time and it was not included in the agreed CAP Strategic Plan.
However, I have significantly increased the number of specific supports that my Department operates for the tillage sector generally. These include TAMS investment support for tillage farmers, the Protein Aid Scheme, the Straw Incorporation Measure and the Tillage Incentive Scheme.
444. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is aware of the widespread concerns of farmers regarding delays in the issue of some ACRES payments; if a partial payment can be issued for those applicants pending processing and finalising of all applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56096/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the commitment in the Programme for Government, a flagship environmental scheme, namely, the Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES), was launched last year. There was exceptional demand for entry into the Scheme, which demonstrates the interest of farmers to take on actions to address climate, biodiversity and environmental issues.
While it was initially planned to take in applicants in two Tranches, with 30,000 in Tranche 1, as a Government the decision was made to accept all valid applications submitted, and there are now just under 46,000 farmers actively involved in the Scheme.
The decision to accept all 46,000 applicants has put significant pressure on the ability to pay all participants in 2023.
I acknowledge the intensive, focused and collective effort from all concerned - from my Department, from advisors, from Co-operation Project Teams and from farmers - in working together on the first year of this new scheme. However, this decision to accept all applicants into Tranche 1 of ACRES has put significant pressure on the ability to pay all eligible participants in 2023.
I want to further acknowledge that farmers were expecting payment before the end of the year and that my officials have been working to expedite payments, but with the unprecedented numbers, it has not been possible to get all eligible applicants paid in ACRES by the year end.
Payments will commence on December 18th for ACRES general participants. Due to the additional complexity associated with the Co-operation Project (CP) stream, payments for ACRES CP participants are being progressed and will begin to issue in February 2024.
Everything is being done to pay, as soon as possible, all ACRES General participants who clear pre-payment checks. In addition, every effort will also be made to ensure that payments to Co-operation Project participants are processed as quickly as possible in early 2024. Partial payments are not a realistic alternative, as they would undermine the integrity of the ACRES payment system, and such expenditure would not meet the standards required to access EU funding in accordance with the new performance reporting obligations under the CAP Strategic Plan.
445. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the main policy achievements of his Department since 27 June 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56102/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is the lead for 148 of the actions in the Agriculture, Food, and the Marine chapter of the Programme for Government: Our Shared Future. As of December 2023, I can report that 72% of these as either “target achieved” or “substantial action undertaking & ongoing”, with another 24% reported as “commenced & progressing”. Some of my main policy achievements since June 2020 include:
• I launched Food Vision 2030, our shared stakeholder-led strategy for the continuing development of the agri-food sector in Ireland. I believe Food Vision is a landmark for the Irish agri-food sector with the potential to transform our agriculture, food, forestry and marine sectors in the period to 2030, with sustainability in all its dimensions (environmental, economic and social) at its core. The final reports of the Food Vision Dairy Group and Food Vision Beef & Sheep Group have been published and propose detailed direct and enabling measures to improve environmental sustainability in the sector. I have also established a Food Vision Tillage Group and their interim report will be available shortly. The first Food Vision Annual Report was published in May 2023.
• Commencing work under the new CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023-2027, which has a significant budget of €9.8 billion, with more than 60% of that (just under €6 billion) targeted at supporting farm incomes. The CAP objectives aim to improve the economic, environmental and social sustainability of the agricultural sector, and we have seen in this period a real shift in focus towards supporting farmers for practices that benefit the climate, environment and biodiversity. In Ireland’s case, a significant element of our CAP funding is targeted towards delivering on environmental and climate objectives. At EU level we have the second highest amount of CAP funding dedicated to environmental action, almost 70% of the Pillar 2 Rural Development funding,.
• I continue to work closely with all stakeholders in gaining, maintaining, restoring and enhancing access for Irish agri-food products to a wide range of priority markets. This includes participating in an ongoing programme of trade missions and promotional activities, in cooperation with Bord Bia. 2022 saw record agri-food exports valued at €19 billion, up 32% in value from €14.3billion in 2020.
• The agriculture, food and marine sectors continue to play a leadership role in delivering on the ambitions target which culminate in a whole-of-economy 51% reduction in emissions by 2030. Policies and strategies devised by my Department are bearing fruit with emissions from agriculture trending downwards, which marked an important reversal of what had been a steady upwards trend since the lowest emissions were reported in 2011. I have introduced measures to achieve abatement potential in the agriculture sector, backed by financial commitment including a budget of €1.5 billion for the new agri-environment scheme ACRES, a five-fold increase in funding for Organic Farming to €256million to triple the area to 7.5% of utilised agricultural area, €260million to improve the carbon efficiency of the suckler herd through genetic improvement, and €43 million for a major genotyping programme for Irish cattle, which will enhance the environmental sustainability, health and productivity of Irish beef and dairy herds.
• My Department continues implementation of schemes developed on foot of the recommendations of the Seafood Sector Taskforce. I have provided funding of €305.5m to support these schemes such as the Brexit Processing Capital Support Scheme, the Brexit Sustainable Aquaculture Growth Scheme, and the Brexit Inshore Fisheries Business Model Adjustment Scheme. In addition my Department secured positive State Aid decisions from the Commission in relation to four new schemes: the Brexit Fish Processor Transition Scheme; the Brexit Specific Scallop Fleet Transition Scheme; Brexit Fisheries Cooperative Transition Scheme 2023; and the Brexit Pelagic Fisheries Support Scheme. Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) are now implementing these new schemes that will deliver significant benefits to the sector. The Brexit Pelagic Fisheries Support Scheme provides a €25.6 million support package funded under the Brexit Adjustment Reserve Fund for vessels that have suffered losses of mackerel quota as a result of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA). The Brexit Fish Processor Transition Scheme is a liquidity scheme for processors (of any size) which will make aid of €7 million available to this sector to offset losses incurred in 2021 arising from reductions in quota on foot of the TCA. The Brexit Fisheries Cooperative Transition Scheme is a continuation of the previous scheme to support the Cooperatives in 2022, and will make a further €1 million in aid available. The Brexit Specific Scallop Fleet Transition Scheme will provide support to this small fleet segment to enable these vessels to adapt to the issues created by Brexit in the scallop fishery.
• The overall funding of €1.3 billion committed to the new National Forestry Programme for the period 2023-2027 represents the largest-ever investment by an Irish Government in tree-planting. It has been designed to incentivise farmers to the greatest extent possible to engage with tree-planting as an alternative income stream.
• The area of research and development is a key focus for my Department, with a budget now standing at €22.45 million. This will be used to drive greater innovation in our agriculture and food sectors as we position Irish agriculture as a leader in sustainable food production.
• The publication of the new National Strategy for Horticulture 2023-2027. The Strategy highlights the potential of the horticulture sector to play a key role in the achievement of our vision for the Irish agrifood sector, both economically and environmentally.
I will continue to lead the development of agri-food in collaboration with the sector and continue to deliver on our Programme for Government commitments.
446. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to outline his Department's plan to support the development of the tillage sector. [56108/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe tillage sector is dynamic, sustainable and world-class and I want to see it grow and develop in the years ahead. It is because of this that I established the Food Vision Tillage Group in May of this year. The Group is made up of a wide range of stakeholders from across the industry and is tasked with setting out a roadmap for the sustainable growth and development of the sector. The Group has met on 10 occasions and identified a number of actions to be undertaken in their Interim Report. Further matters are being examined by the Group and I will consider their final recommendations when they are forwarded to me in due course.
In recent years, I have introduced several proactive and innovative measures to support the sector. The Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM) has paid €19.5m to tillage farmers since it was launched as a pilot in 2021 and I have committed to pay approximately €16.5m for SIM this year. The Tillage Incentive Scheme, launched in response to the invasion of Ukraine, has resulted in payments of €10.9m in 2022 and has continued in 2023. In the new CAP Strategic Plan, I secured an increase in the annual budget of the Protein Aid Scheme from €3m to €7m.
To help alleviate the significant challenges Irish growers experienced this year, I secured €7.147m from the EU Agricultural Reserve to support the sector. This allocation is being topped up with a further €7.147m is state funding. These funds are being used to support growers with unharvested crops by way of an Unharvested Crop Support Scheme. The remaining available funds are being used as a once-off flat rate payment on the area of oilseed rape, winter and spring barley, wheat and rye declared under the Basic Income Support for Sustainability Scheme (BISS) in 2023.
The overall level of support provided demonstrates my commitment to this important sector and the many farm families and businesses dependent upon it.
448. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of payments in Mayo that will be affected by the delayed ACRES payments. [56150/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the commitment in the Programme for Government, a flagship environmental scheme, namely the Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES), was launched last year. There was exceptional demand for entry into the Scheme, which demonstrates the interest of farmers to take on actions to address climate, biodiversity and environmental issues.
While it was initially planned to take in applicants in two Tranches, with 30,000 in Tranche 1, as a Government the decision was made to accept all valid applications submitted, and there are now just under 46,000 farmers actively involved in the Scheme.
The decision to accept all 46,000 applicants has put significant pressure on the ability to pay all participants in 2023.
Officials have been working to expedite payments, but with the unprecedented numbers, it has not been possible to get all participants paid in ACRES by the year end. Payments will commence on December 18th with two thirds of all ACRES General participants in the final stages of being processed for payment in the initial payment run. Due to the additional complexity associated with the Co-operation Project (CP) stream, payments for ACRES CP participants are being progressed and will begin to issue in February 2024.
For participants in County Mayo, as ACRES General participants are still undergoing payment processing, it is not possible to confirm the number that will not be paid. There are 2,808 participants in ACRES CP, in the county. Everything is being done to pay, as soon as possible, all ACRES participants who clear pre-payment checks.
449. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which traceability, husbandry, management and hygiene tests continue to be strictly applied throughout the food sector, indigenous and imports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56226/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAny food business involved in the production, processing and distribution of food in Ireland must be approved or registered by the responsible government agency to carry out these activities and are subject to official controls.
Regulation (EC) No. 178 of 2002 as amended sets out the general principles and requirements of EU food law and stipulates that food business operators must, at all stages of production, processing and distribution within their business, ensure food law requirements are satisfied. To ensure traceability across the food chain, these regulations require that food business operators have what is referred to as the, "one step forward, one step backward", traceability system.
Food business operators must ensure that they comply with the relevant hygiene requirements applicable to their operations as laid down in the Hygiene Package.
Under the EU Hygiene package, the primary responsibility for food safety, hygiene and traceability of food placed on the market lies with food business operators.
Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 lays down specific rules on the hygiene of food of animal origin for food business operators. These rules supplement those laid down by Regulation (EC) No 852/2004.
The role of National Competent Authorities is to verify compliance with these requirements. This is done by inspecting establishments and auditing the food safety management systems which food business operators have in place. Verification activities also include the taking of official controls samples for verification of food business operators compliance with food law.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland has overall responsibility for the enforcement of food Safety legislation in Ireland and delegates this work to the official agencies through service contracts. These contracts specify the food sectors to be supervised, the types of controls to be provided including inspections and laboratory analysis. The main official agencies under contract to the FSAI are the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the Health Service Executive, the Local Authorities and the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority. The contracts are published on the Authority’s website and their performance is subject to regular checks and audits.
The collective work of the FSAI and the official agencies is reported annually in the Multi Annual National Control Plan for Ireland. This is submitted to the European Commission and the FSAI and its official agencies are subject to audit by the Commission based on the data provided.
The organisation of official controls in Ireland covers all foods produced or marketed in the State, including imports.
My Department has a permanent presence in all approved slaughter plants. Controls at plants only engaged in secondary processing are carried out at a frequency based on an annual risk assessment. Official controls are carried out on imported products, including checks on physical identity, labelling and documentary checks for product originating in EU Member States and third countries in accordance with the relevant EU regulations.
The standards for animal husbandry are laid out in the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 as amended and are strictly enforced by the Veterinary and Agricultural inspectorates.
The import of products of animal origin from third countries is also governed by EU legislation and these products must enter the EU through designated Border Control Posts. The legislation demands that imported products meet standards equivalent to those required for production and trade within the EU. Border Control Posts are operated by my Department. Import control procedures on foods of animal origin are highly prescriptive and strictly applied.
The FSAI reviews audit and inspection control programmes and receives information on the outcome of official controls foods. Where foods may pose a danger to public health are identified, withhold, withdraw and recall notices are issued to Food Businesses and this information is relayed to the European Commission through the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed. The relevant EU and National legislation sets out the actions required and penalties that can be applied to food businesses including closure or suspension of business activities.
450. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he and his Department continue to monitor the poultry sector, with particular reference to any threats to the industry; the degree to which potential for growth remains; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56227/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department continues to monitor the markets and any impacts on the agri-food sector and I am acutely aware of the pressures being faced by many in the agri-food sector due to the increase in input costs, exacerbated by the impact of the illegal war in Ukraine. As in other meat sectors, global trade conditions will be crucial in determining the outlook for the Irish poultry sector over the medium to longer term.
Poultry is normally reared under contract to processors, for a pre-agreed price, and therefore poultry producers are not typically subject to the same price fluctuations as other farmers.
Poultrymeat, which is a high protein food source, has seen an increase in demand in recent years and while there was a slight decrease in Poultry prices in November 2023 of 4.36%, when compared to the average price paid in November 2022, the November average price for 2023 is 13.21% and 10.77% higher than the average price paid in November 2020 and 2021 respectively.
In Ireland, Poultry Prices in 2023 have remained stable throughout the year and the average price, for the period Jan to Nov 2023, of €2.48 compares favorably with the average price of €2.38, which was achieved in the same 11-month period of 2022.
2023 has shown signs of growth in overall Poultry production with slaughter figures, as of Week 48 of 2023, up by 3.85% on the same period of 2022 and if current weekly trends continue, the overall slaughter figures for 2023, could exceed 110m birds.
According to the CSO figures, released for September 2023, the UK (€247m) accounted for 78.39% of 2022 total exports in terms of value (€). The Netherlands (€19.6m), France (€9.08m) Germany (€7.09m) and Spain (€6.1m) also featured prominently as Poultry Meat export destinations in 2022 and these Countries accounted for just over 91.6% of total Irish Poultry Meat exports in 2022.
For the Jan to Sept period 2023, poultry exports are slightly lower in value in comparison to the same period of 2022, coming in at €209.7 million (-9.14%) with a corresponding decrease in tonnage at 75,565 tonnes, a decrease of 1.8%.
Securing market access and diversifying trade remains a key aim for my Department and developing market opportunities at home and abroad is one of the goals of Food Vision 2030.
I am also very aware of the contribution of the poultry production sector to Irish agri-food as a whole, supporting significant levels of direct employment as well as their role in supporting rural economies and the wider national economy and I firmly believe that the poultry production sector in Ireland is in a strong position.
451. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he expects all agricultural support payments to be made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56228/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department manages payments under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in addition to several nationally funded schemes. This year saw the introduction of a new CAP programme, and the implementation of Ireland’s Cap Strategic Plan (CSP). The CSP marks a new departure in both the design and operation of all CAP supported schemes, and has represented much change for farmers and the Department alike.
Understandably, there has been a lot of focus throughout the year on the dates on which payments have been made to farmers. Ireland continues to be one of the earliest to make payments under CAP within the EU, and to highest possible number of farmers. In terms of 2024, I have already made a commitment to farmers and farmer representative bodies that the advance ANC payment will revert to its previous earlier date of mid-September with advance payments under BISS, CRISS and Eco-scheme payments in the second half of October 2024. Staff in my Department will continue to work to issue payments that are still due in the coming months as early as possible.
In 2023, my Department has issued payments to farmers under the following schemes:
• Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS)
• Complementary Redistributive Income Support for Sustainability (CRISS)
• Complementary Income Support for Young Farmers (CISYF)
• National Reserve (€766.5m for BISS, CRISS, CISYF and National Reserve)
• Eco-scheme (€280m)
• Protein Aid (€8.6m)
• Fodder Support Scheme 2023 (€18.5m)
• Areas of Natural Constraint Scheme (€241.4m)
• Sheep Improvement Scheme (€18.9m)
• National Dairy Beef Welfare Scheme (€5m)
• Beef Welfare Scheme (€14.2m)
• Shannon Callows Exceptional Aid Scheme (€0.55m)
• Organic Farming Scheme (€36.5m)
• Collaborative Farming Grant (€0.39m)
• Farm Safety Scheme (€48k)
• Bovine EID scheme (€1.1m)
• AIM Mart Equipment Scheme (€0.31m)
• BVD Tag Scheme (€1.9m)
• TAMS (€40.41m)
And in the coming days, my Department will make payments to farmers under the Straw Incorporation Measure and Tillage Incentive Scheme (expected payments of €12.3m), Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (expected payments of approximately €50m), ACRES (expected payments of approximately €76m, Liming Programme (expected payments of €7m), Multi-Species Swards Measure, Red Clover Silage Measure, and Equine Passport Scheme.
Payments in respect of the attendance of ACRES participants at ACRES Training Courses, under the ACRES Training Scheme, are also currently being paid to the Course Providers to pass on to the attendees, with just under €1.8m paid to date, and another €3.1m to be issued in the next week.
These schemes represent a total investment approaching €1.6 billion in farming and in rural Ireland supporting farmers in producing safe, high-quality food in a sustainable way.
452. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to outline the growth and development of the fish processing sector, including landings in this jurisdiction over the past ten years; the extent to which he remains satisfied regarding the future development of the sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56229/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraTable 1 shows the volume of all landings into Irish ports in the 10 years from 2013 to 2022. The Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) is responsible for the collection of landings data and the data in Table 1 was taken from the Annual Statistics section of the SFPA website. This table indicates that in the 10 years between 2013 and 2022, 2020 was the year with the greatest volume of fish landings into Irish ports. In 2021 and 2022, there has been a year-on-year reduction in the volume of fish landings into Irish ports and 2022 was the year with the lowest volume of fish landings into Irish ports in this ten year period.
Table 1: Volume of all landings into Irish ports in the years 2013 to 2022 inclusive
|
Year |
Volume of all landings into Irish ports [tonnes] |
|
2013 |
279,878 |
|
2014 |
294,383 |
|
2015 |
298,130 |
|
2016 |
275,650 |
|
2017 |
318,415 |
|
2018 |
316,851 |
|
2019 |
314,987 |
|
2020 |
327,773 |
|
2021 |
298,510 |
|
2022 |
267,200 |
Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) publishes its "Business of Seafood" report annually, which provides a snapshot of Ireland's seafood sector, including seafood processing. The most recent report, ‘The Business of Seafood 2022’, sets out the challenges encountered by the seafood processing sector including challenges arising from the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation agreement; constraints on raw materials; an increase in supply chain costs; and difficulties within the sector in the recruitment and retention of employees.
In addition, I am cognisant of prevailing market conditions and aware that seafood processors, which target high value shellfish in particular, have been impacted as a result of wider market issues in Europe and beyond due to the rising cost of living and its impact on consumer spending habits. However, I can advise the Deputy that Bord Bia, which has responsibility for the promotion and marketing of Irish food, works closely with key producers and processors to promote Irish seafood in both the domestic and international markets.
I am committed to the continued growth and development of the seafood processing sector. The seafood sector, including seafood processing, provides valuable employment opportunities in coastal areas where other employment opportunities may be limited. The most recent Business of Seafood report indicates that in 2022, 101 seafood processing provided employment for 3,425 people in full time, part time or casual employment.
In order to support the seafood processing sector into the future, a number of support schemes have been developed including the €45 million Brexit Processing Capital Support Scheme. This Scheme is seeing large investments made in Ireland’s seafood processing sector to allow such enterprises to expand, focus on higher value-added output and in exploring new market opportunities, which may present new channels for output for the fishing sector.
In addition, a new scheme to support capital investment in processing is being developed under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), which will ensure continued support to the sector over the coming years of the EMFAF programme.
453. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he has had discussions with the farming sector, with a view to identifying issues that have caused concern in the course of the past twelve months; whether it is expected that any particular provisions are likely to be made to address the issues in all the sectors where issues have arisen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56230/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI speak with stakeholders in the farming sector on an ongoing basis across a range of issues. These discussions include formal engagements on ongoing issues relating to agriculture policy, such as the CAP Strategic Plan and the implementation of Food Vision 2030, engagements on preparations for the budget, and engagements on specific issues that arise from time to time. I also have many informal engagements both with the farm organisations and with farmers themselves.
There is also ongoing dialogue between my Department and farmers and the representative bodies through various consultative and implementation bodies. We saw last year important work on environmental sustainability in the dairy and beef sectors, which were progressed through specific stakeholder groups. Both the Food Vision Dairy Group and the Beef & Sheepmeat Group submitted reports and some of the recommendations from these are now included in the Climate Action Plan 2023, with others integrated generally into policy. These Groups, and the new Tillage Sector Group, will continue to meet to progress these and other important actions for the dairy, beef, sheep and tillage sectors set out in Food Vision 2030.
I believe that it is only by working together as a sector, with all the stakeholders having a voice and playing a role, that we can progress and meet our challenges and make the most of our opportunities. This is why I will continue to engage with the farming stakeholders, and indeed all of the agri-food sector stakeholders, to achieve our ambitions in the year ahead, especially the ambition outlined in Food Vision 2030 for Ireland to be a “World Leader in Sustainable Food Systems”, encompassing environmental, economic and social sustainability. Ireland is seeking to become a global leader of innovation for sustainable food and agriculture systems, producing safe, nutritious, and high-value food, while protecting and enhancing its natural and cultural resources and contributing to vibrant rural and coastal communities and the national economy.
454. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which the targets set in Foodwise 2025 continue to be met; the areas, if any, which have raised concern and any proposals arising therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56231/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Food Vision 2030 strategy, which succeeded Food Wise 2025, is the latest in a series of ten-year stakeholder-led strategies for the Irish agri-food sector and was launched in August 2021.
I am committed to leading on Food Vision as we seek to deliver on our environmental, economic and social sustainability ambitions. I established a High Level Implementation Committee and have already chaired eight meetings, where we have examined a wide range of issues and I am pleased to say that implementation of Food Vision 2030 is well underway, with many of its actions commenced. The implementation process allows us to monitor the process, examine areas where progress is not being made and to adjust as necessary.
Progress to date includes important work on environmental sustainability in the dairy and beef sectors, through specific stakeholder Groups. Both Groups submitted reports and many of the recommendations from these are now included in the Climate Action Plan 2023, with others integrated generally into policy. The Groups will continue to meet to progress these and other important actions for the dairy, beef and sheep sectors set out in Food Vision 2030. A Food Vision 2030 Tillage Group was established earlier this year, highlighting the significant role the tillage sector plays in Ireland’s food and feed security and the ambition to grow the tillage area.
The first Food Vision Annual Report detailing progress was published in May 2023 www.gov.ie/en/publication/c73a3-food-vision-2030-a-world-leader-in-sustainable-food-systems/
In terms of overall progress to date, 14 actions are complete, 108 actions have substantial action undertaken, 92 actions have commenced and are progressing, and four actions have not yet commenced. Among the key achievements are the development of Sustainability Plans for the Dairy and Beef Sectors, as already mentioned; the work of the Seafood Sector Taskforce; the publication of Ireland’s Forest Strategy 2023 – 2030; the publication of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan; Ireland’s participation in the UN Food Systems Summit; the development of a new strategy for the horticulture sector; the launch of a new flagship environmental scheme, ACRES; the publication of Ireland’s first National Bioeconomy Action Plan for the period 2023-2025; and the hosting of the first National Dialogue on Women in Agriculture.
I continue to work closely with all stakeholders in gaining, maintaining, restoring and enhancing access for Irish agri-food products to a wide range of priority markets. This includes participating in an ongoing programme of trade missions and promotional activities, in cooperation with Bord Bia. 2022 saw record agri-food exports valued at €19 billion, up 32% in value from €14.3 billion in 2020.
I believe Food Vision provides a vision for a dynamic, sustainable and innovative agri-food sector ready to adapt and to embrace change for a more sustainable future. I am confident that, with Food Vision 2030 as a strategic framework, Ireland’s agri-food sector will achieve its ambition to become a world leader in sustainable food systems.
455. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is satisfied that adequate soil management continues to take place, given the need to ensure that adequate drainage, soil aeration and productive capacity remain vital in the future, notwithstanding the current emphasis on the need for rewetting and mindful of the necessity to achieve the maximum level of food production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56232/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI recognise the importance of sustainable soil management practices on Irish farms and how they will help us to deliver on the environmental objectives of the EU Green Deal and on our own agri-food strategy Food Vision 2030.
It has to be acknowledged that soil drainage poses particular challenges in Ireland. There is a great variety of soils and soil problems which means that every drainage challenge on soils is unique. The reduced management intensity of drained organic soils is an entirely new area of work with much uncertainty and complexity, which Ireland will need to pioneer an approach to. The uncertainty is caused by data gaps in respect to the location of organic soils, the nature of land management and intensity, the drainage location and status and the level of GHG emissions emitted from these soils in varying states of wetness and management.
I have targeted investment in projects to deal with this uncertainty, with the National Agricultural Soil Carbon Observatory seeking to provide a more accurate picture of soil emissions and removals; the RePeat project to provide greater resolution peat soil maps; and two European Innovation Projects, FarmPeat and FarmCarbon, who are working with farmers at farm level to develop innovative solutions, with learnings already been brought across into the ACRES scheme.
I have also provided significant funding for a Soil Sampling and Analysis Programme. This programme provides valuable information to farmers to inform decisions that promote the health of their soils and is aimed at putting soil health, soil fertility and soil carbon at the very centre of our future agricultural model. Approval letters for the second phase of this programme issued to 7,000 farmers last week.
456. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he remains satisfied that adequate protection is in place to ensure future protection of agriculturally productive land and the need to maintain high productivity in the future in the sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56233/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn 2022 the agri-food sector, which includes primary production in farming, fishing and forestry, and the processing and manufacture of food, beverages and wood products, exported goods valued at a record €18.98 billion, accounting for 9% of all the merchandised goods exported from Ireland. Farm-families and the products that they produce from the land contribute massively to this output.
While many challenges exist, it is clear that the output from our agricultural land is a critical part of Irish economic output.
The CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) launched in 2023 has a wide range of schemes to support farmers and to ensure that the valuable outputs from agriculture are produced in a sustainable manner both for the climate, environment and for farm-families. The range of schemes on offer ensures that each farm can choose a form and intensity of agriculture that best suits their land. Land must be managed, and while farmers may choose to modify the type and intensity of farming that they carry out, the abandonment of land is not supported.
In 2022, my department completed a detailed study of abandoned lands that were declared as farmed as part of the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS). Of the close to 1.2 million parcels declared as part of BPS only a very small number of parcels (<100) were found to be fully abandoned, with no farming activity taking place in the parcel. Based on these figures, it would be fair to say that instance of land abandonment is very low, almost negligible.
The abandonment of land, even at very low instances has important consequences. Many habitats in the Irish landscape require management in some form to thrive, such as meadows. Land abandonment, however small can lead to the loss of diverse habitats and the loss of supporting habitats for flora and fauna. This is particularly bad for those species with specific lifecycle needs. Land abandonment can result in a decline in species diversity and loss of landscape diversity leading to disruption in natural processes.
Lands that are abandoned can be prone to soil sedimentation leading to impacts on water quality, the spread of invasive species and the loss of important sites for migratory species. For my Department, it is important to recognise and support high nature value farming and extensive farmers and to ensure their vital roles as land managers is economically and socially sustainable in order to support their ongoing work to maintain environmental sustainability.
457. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which beef, lamb, sheep, poultry, pig meat or meat products are imported into this country and deemed to originate in European and non-European countries, whether husbandry, hygiene and production methods in the respective country of origin meet those applicable in this country and throughout the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56234/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraCSO data on the volume of raw and processed meat imported into Ireland and categorised by origin from EU member states and non-EU countries is tabulated below.
|
- |
EU (tonnes) |
Non-EU (tonnes) |
Total tonnage |
% EU origin |
% non-EU origin |
|
Beef |
5,060 |
31,508 |
36,568 |
14% |
86% |
|
Pigmeat |
56,864 |
28,734 |
85,598 |
67% |
33% |
|
Poultrymeat |
74,421 |
67,933 |
142,354 |
53% |
47% |
|
Sheepmeat |
202 |
8,999 |
9,201 |
2% |
98% |
|
Other meat & meat produce |
2,026 |
2,482 |
4,508 |
45% |
55% |
Beef, lamb, sheep, poultry, pig or meat products can only enter the EU from approved establishments in countries listed in the relevant Annexes to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/404. This Regulation lays down the lists of third countries, territories, or zones from which the entry into the Union of animals, germinal products and products of animal origin is permitted.
Third countries - that is, non-EU countries - must apply to the European Commission to be included on approved country lists, a process which requires submission of detailed information on the applicant country’s animal husbandry, hygiene and production methods, and other relevant standards.
Third country audits are performed by EU Commission officials to verify the information included in the submission and to verify that husbandry, hygiene and production methods and standards are equal to those required throughout the European Union.
In addition, imports of meat and meat products must be accompanied by the relevant model of health certificate, completed and signed by the Competent Authority of the exporting third country. These health certificates contain, but are not limited to, attestations relating to the establishment of origin of the animals, welfare at the time of slaughter, and hygiene standards of the approved establishment of origin of the meat and meat products.
At the border control post (BCP) of first entry to the EU, such consignments undergo full documentary and identity checks and a varying percentage of physical checks. In addition, sampling may be performed at the BCP either randomly, or as part of enhanced sampling and intensified official controls which apply to consignments under suspicion of non-compliance.
458. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which the fishing industry is likely to expand in the future in terms of production, jobs and exports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56235/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile it is not possible to predict with any certainty future growth in the fishing industry given the geopolitical and economic instabilities globally, I can assure the Deputy that my Department continues to monitor the needs of the fisheries and seafood sector. My Department prepares and publishes an Annual Review and Outlook, which provides up-to-date information and statistical analysis from a variety of sources and gives a detailed overview of Ireland’s seafood and agri-food sectors including an outlook for the future. The most recent Annual Review and Outlook report was published by my Department on 27 November 2023. In addition, according to Bord Iascaigh Mhara’s annual Business of Seafood reports, fisheries production has levelled off in general over the last few years, apart from fluctuations in landings of pelagic species, including mackerel and blue whiting, reflecting the year-on-year fluctuations in quota allocations. Employment in the overall seafood sector has been stable in the last 5-10 years although employment in the fishing fleet has tended to fall with pressures from other sectors competing for employees. Exports showed an upward pattern in recent years but dipped in volume terms. This was offset by increases in the value of exports to the European Union and internationally reflecting rises in fish prices. I anticipate that many factors will influence the future growth of the sector, at both national and international levels. Fundamentally, the growth prospects of the Irish fishing sector are strongly linked to the state of the fish stocks that the Irish fleet exploits. The biological states of these stocks are variable, but the long-term trend is for more stocks to be exploited at sustainable levels. I am advised by the Marine Institute that the number of sustainably fished stocks increased from 35 in 2021 to 40 in 2022 out of 75 stocks assessed. More sustainable stocks will lead to increased yields over time and an increase in the profitability of the fishing fleet. I can advise the Deputy that other initiatives undertaken in the last few years will also assist in ensuring the long-term profitability of the Irish fishing industry. This includes a recently completed vessel decommissioning scheme, a recommendation of the Seafood Taskforce and which was supported by Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR) funding, and has removed 39 whitefish trawlers from the fishing fleet. It is important to state that removing these vessels permits €30 million worth of quota for allocation to vessels remaining in the fleet. Additionally, BAR funding has been provided to the Fish Processing sector to increase processing capacity and add value to seafood destined for export markets. Other schemes such as the Brexit Blue Economy Scheme have provided opportunities for fishers to innovate, diversify and assist fishing enterprises to increase employment. Funding under the European Maritime, Aquaculture and Fisheries Fund (EMFAF) which envisages funding of up to €258.4 million will continue to provide supports to the industry to drive change in the sector, attract new entrants and ensure its sustainable future. In relation to employment prospects, I can inform the Deputy that Bord Iascaigh Mhara have recently launched a new strategic plan to ensure the skills required for an innovative, professional and sustainable seafood industry are delivered. ‘The Next Wave 2023-2028’ will see an allocation of €5 million over the lifetime of the plan and seeks to address a number of challenges faced by the fishing sector. In addition to delivering skills that are currently required, Bord Iascaigh Mhara will determine and plan for future skill requirements, including business and technical skills. This strategy will help to maintain employment in the sector as well as attracting new entrants to the industry over time. The Programme for Government sets down an ambitious programme of actions that promote a sustainable seafood industry and I am committed to working to continue to build on the progress that has been made to secure a sustainable future for our fishing industry and the coastal communities which depend upon it.
459. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which the extent, if any, to which the market for venison can be enhanced, with particular reference to exports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56236/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraDeer farming in Ireland is an alternative enterprise which is dependent on the dynamics of supply and demand which affect all agricultural production systems. In 1996 there were approximately 500 deer farms with 20,000 deer in Ireland, but numbers have declined sharply since that time.
Specific information on the production volumes of venison in Ireland are not currently available and it remains a niche part of the overall Irish meat sector. Likewise, information on venison consumption within Ireland is difficult, particularly given that the majority of domestic consumption is highly seasonal and is primarily in the foodservice sector where reliable data is particularly difficult to source.
Current export destinations for venison are also difficult to quantify given that the Central Statistics Office (CSO) data does not capture venison as a separate category. There are a small number of companies in Ireland currently engaged in the processing, marketing and export of venison and Bord Bia engage with these as appropriate. Engagement with these companies has indicated that export opportunities exist in central Europe, particularly in Germany.
Venison remains a niche element of overall meat production in Ireland however recent developments in the sector have indicated potential growth in venison availability. From a business expansion perspective Bord Bia will continue to engage with relevant companies and invest in identifying and supporting domestic and export market opportunities for Irish venison as appropriate.
460. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which the fishing industry continues to progress, with particular reference to new markets abroad while maintaining existing markets and meeting home demand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56237/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Irish seafood industry was valued at €1.3 billion in 2022, as reported in Bord Iasaigh Mhara’s Business of Seafood publication, demonstrating a 4% increase from the previous year. This was largely driven by an increase in the domestic consumption of seafood in Ireland in the foodservices sector as well higher prices, both domestically and on the main export markets. Seafood exports were valued at €696 million with domestic sales valued at €475 million.
My Department has provided a range of supports to our fishing fleet over recent years, funded under the Brexit Adjustment Reserve. The schemes were based on the findings of the Seafood Task Force which I established to examine the implications of the EU/UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement for the fishing industry and coastal communities.
My Department will continue to provide supports as further schemes are developed and implemented under Ireland’s European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) Seafood Development Programme. The €258 million programme will provide a wide range of supports for fishers and the wider development of the seafood sector, including support for capital investment on board, capital investment ashore relating to the landing obligation, innovation in fishing gear and methods, technical advice to the fleet, acquisition of first vessel by young fishers, supports to the inshore fleet, training and marketing over the coming years.
I can advise the Deputy that a key component of my Department's efforts to market Irish seafood and agri-food produce in general internationally is through participation in an ongoing programme of Ministerial Trade Missions. In 2023 there has been Ministerial led Trade Missions to China, South East Asia and West Africa and to a number of key European markets, all of which are priority markets and growth targets for our seafood and agri-food export sectors.
In addition, Bord Bia, which has responsibility for the promotion and marketing of Irish food, works closely with key fishing and seafood producers to promote Irish seafood in both the domestic and international markets.
Bord Bia are currently running an Irish seafood advertising campaign on the domestic market. This campaign involves radio advertising and social media activity and includes a series of Irish seafood recipes which are being promoted on Bord Bia’s media channels. The species being highlighted in this promotion are Irish crab, salmon, trout, langoustines, haddock, monkfish and oysters. This will assist in increasing the profile for Irish seafood in the run up to Christmas and should drive preferences for Irish seafood and increase consumption in the domestic market. Bord Iascaigh Mhara also supports a number of initiatives involving the short chain of locally caught and consumed seafood products and I can assure the Deputy that this is being encouraged and promoted where possible also.
461. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he remains satisfied that agricultural production volumes here will not be impaired in the course of climate change measures, which are necessary as is food production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56238/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy position has been consistent- each sector, including agriculture, will need to play its part to achieve Ireland's climate targets.
Climate Action Plan 2023 sets out the pathway to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the sector and Climate Action Plan 2024, which is nearing finalisation, will build on this approach. These measures are grouped around three themes: inputs and additives, husbandry practices, and 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.
To this end, the CAP Strategic Plan will support farmers in delivering more sustainable practices while also supporting family farm incomes, with a budget of €9.8bn. In addition, I have provided €1.5bn for the new agri-environment scheme ACRES, a five-fold increase in funding for Organic Farming to €256m to triple the agricultural area under organic production. A further €260m has been provided to improve the carbon efficiency of the suckler herd through genetic improvement.
Some livestock farmers will take up diversification options that are provided for as part of our climate transformation including organics, but also Forestry and Tillage. Also, as we increase the production of renewables, some farmers may choose to provide feedstock for Anaerobic Digestion.
Given the efficiency gains that continue to be made at farm level, I remain confident that we will continue to reduce emissions in the agri-food sector without reducing our agri-output.
My aim is to future proof Ireland’s agri-food sector for the benefit of our industry, the environment and our farm families who are the backbone of the sector and rural communities. The sector will continue to be underpinned by our world class livestock and tillage sectors, and it is critical that we work collectively to achieve our environmental targets while maintaining food production.
462. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which turkey production here continues to meet the needs of home and export markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56239/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe poultry sector (meat and eggs), remains a critical part of the rural economy in many parts of the country, delivering around €700 million in output and supports over 5,000 jobs. Around 800 farms are involved in commercial poultry production in the Republic of Ireland. Turkey production makes up about 19% of this output. Poultry exports were valued at €350 million in 2022, this represents a 20% increase from 2018.
Central Statistic Office (CSO) stats shows that Ireland has exported fresh, frozen, chilled, live and prepared turkey at the following values and tonnage from 2019 to 2022:
• In 2019 15.3 tonnes to a value of €35.1M
• In 2020 7.4 tonnes to a value of €27.9M
• In 2021 6.9 tonnes to a value of €30.7M
• In 2022 9.4 tonnes to a value of €44.2m
• Poultry remains the most popular meat among Irish consumers, accounting for 75% of meat consumption growth since 2015 to reach around 45% market share, this has led to a decline in self-sufficiency. Despite this, the quantity of turkey imports has remained relatively stable:
• In 2019 13.5 tonnes were imported to a value of €54.2M
• In 2020 14.9 tonnes were imported to a value of €42.9M
• In 2021 15.5 tonnes were imported to a value of €59.8M
• In 2022 12.8 tonnes were imported to a value of €70.8M
One area in which my Department in, conjunction with Bord Bia and Animal Health Ireland, can help bolster the turkey industry is biosecurity.
Maintaining strong biosecurity at all times remains a core focus for the sector. This will involve the ongoing implementation of good practices guidelines, assessment against agreed criteria as part of Bord Bia’s Assurance Schemes and the ongoing rollout of the Targeted Advisory Service on Animal Health (TASAH) service by Animal Health Ireland.
This service, funded by my Department and delivered by Animal Health Ireland, supports the collective efforts to mitigate against incursions of avian influenza and to contribute to reducing the incidence of campylobacter. Supporting the further delivery of this service across turkey farms will be a priority for the poultry sector in 2023 and beyond.
463. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which all causes for the spread of bovine TB continue to be examined, with a view to maximising health and safety issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56240/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraBovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a challenging disease to control and eradicate. I am acutely aware of the financial and emotional trauma associated with a TB breakdown.
It causes significant hardship for farmers and farming families, and I am fully committed to the objectives of the Bovine TB Eradication Strategy which aims to reduce and ultimately eradicate this disease in Ireland. This battle against TB continues in 2023.
There are three main sources of infection for cattle - the purchase of infected cattle, the presence of residual (undetected) infection within cattle herds and spread from wildlife (badgers predominately). The relative importance of these factors vary from herd to herd and all three need to be addressed to protect livestock and eradicate TB.
As of 3rd December 2023, on a 12-month rolling basis, herd incidence has increased to 4.86% compared to 4.17% at the same time last year. In the past 12 months 4,983 herds were restricted, compared to 4,388 in the previous 12-month period. An increase of 595 herds restricted (13.5%).
Larger herds, fragmented farms, and herds that buy in cattle are all more at risk of TB breakdown. In addition the expansion of the dairy herd since 2015 has had an impact on increasing TB levels also.
As the spread of this disease is multifactorial, it is being fought on many fronts. The TB programme in each county focuses on factors including wildlife, how disease is distributed in the area, contiguous programmes, gamma interferon testing, cleansing and disinfection, testing compliance and swift isolation and removal of reactors.
Each TB outbreak is investigated by a veterinary inspector to identify the source of infection. In the case of every outbreak involving three or more standard reactors, there is a veterinary visit to advise the herdowner on how to eliminate infection and measures necessary to help reduce the risk of recurrence. Emphasis is placed on the biosecurity measures a farmer can take to reduce risks on their farm, and when buying in animals.
Ireland's bovine TB Eradication Programme operates in line with best national and international scientific research and advice. A large body of peer-reviewed research has been conducted into the spread of TB in Ireland and the risks underlying its transmission. This research has found that the principal causes of TB introduction and spread include:
• movement of cattle with undetected infection.
• residual infection in cattle previously exposed to TB.
• spread across farm boundaries.
• indirect spread through other biosecurity breaches, and/or,
• spread from infected badgers to cattle.
This research has recently been reviewed in its entirety for the Bovine TB Stakeholder Forum by its Scientific Working Group, which comprises a panel of internationally recognised experts in TB research.
I am committed to reducing TB incidence rates across the country. We have made good strides since I launched the new TB Strategy in 2021 with all stakeholders working collectively and collegiately to reduce TB rates. We must keep this going with the ultimate aim of eradicating TB from the herd.
The details of the TB Strategy along with the results of the review are available on: www.bovinetb.ie
