Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
1254. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will review a proposal (details supplied) and have his Department contact the promoter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1280/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland is currently focused on improving nutrient use efficiency to improve the recovery of organic manures at farm level while reducing the dependency on chemical fertilisers. Our CAP Strategic Plan is supporting farmers to adjust their farming practices to reduce reliance on chemical fertiliser (for example use of multi-species sward, soil sampling and liming, investments in LESS), and to increase use of organic fertiliser. This is a significant change, and these practices will take time to be fully effective.
The proposal in the attachment proposes a possible system of converting animal by-products into fertiliser, which would provide an additional alternative source of non-chemical fertilisers.
In the first instance, as the source product is classified as an animal by-product, strict rules are in place to protect both public and animal health.
The regulation of animal by-products is handled by a number of bodies:
• Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine: Responsible for most animal by-product processing plants and the largest meat plants
• Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority: Responsible for marine animal by-products
• Local Authority Veterinary Service: Responsible for animal by-product in smaller local abattoirs
This is a complex matter that will require input from a number of Departments and other Government Agencies to ensure compliance with all necessary legislative requirements. The establishment of an enterprise of this nature is a commercial venture. However, my Department have been in contact with the promoters in relation to the relevant regulatory and other requirements.
