Written Answers Nos. 101-120
101. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of applications that have been received to date for the scheme of investment aid for the seed potato sector and the chipping potato sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18556/23]
View answerI thank the Deputy for raising this topic. It is an area that is close to both our hearts and it is one that we have shared ambitions for.
The 2023 Scheme of Investment Aid for the Seed Potato and Chipping Potato Sector will assist in the development of capacity within the Irish seed and chipping potato sectors and will aid improvements in the production, storage and marketing infrastructure of seed and chipping potatoes by providing grant assistance to producers towards the capital cost of specialized equipment and facilities.
This exciting and innovative Scheme which is worth €3.1 million in 2023 is funded utilising funding under Ireland’s allocation from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve Fund (BAR).
As of close of business Monday, April 17th a total of 28 applications had been received. An extension to the closing date was announced by my Department last week and the Scheme will now close for applications at 5pm on Friday 21st April 2023.
I am a huge supporter of the domestic potato sector. There is great potential in continuing to revive the domestic seed potato sector. I am committed to seeing it thrive once more once there is leadership from within the sector too. I believe we can restore the industry to its heyday nationally.
102. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine with respect to recommendation 123 of the Citizens Assembly on Biodiversity Loss, which states that ‘Existing legislation and regulations regarding hedgerows must be reviewed, strengthened and fully enforced’, if his Department will urgently review the Environmental Impact Assessment (Agriculture) Regulations governing the removal of hedgerows; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17867/23]
View answerOur hedgerow are a nature resource of immense importance and I want to not only protect but enhance them. They play a crucial role in our biodiversity and sequestration. They also are habitats and homes for many of our great creatures.
The Environmental Impact Assessment (Agriculture) (EIA) Regulations came into effect in September 2011 and were amended in April 2013 and September 2017. Given the passage of time since the Regulations were introduced, it is appropriate to now review these regulations and amend them where necessary.
In line with the Programme for Government, my Department has already committed to undertaking a full review of these Regulations. This review will commence shortly.
Separate to the EIA Regulations, the new CAP Strategic Plan which commenced in January has a significantly stronger focus on the environment, and especially biodiversity, through a combination of new land eligibility rules, enhanced Conditionality requirements, introduction of the Eco-Scheme under Pillar I and an environmentally ambitious Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) under Pillar II.
The new definition of the eligible hectare will avoid the suggested incentive to remove natural features which are beneficial for climate or the environment.
Under Conditionality farmers must devote at least 4% of their land to biodiversity under what is termed "space for nature" .
For the first time, this will place a direct financial value on hedgerows. In addition the Conditionality requirements for the maintenance of land in Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition (GAEC) will also require farmers to retain landscape features which include hedgerows.
With effect from the start of January this year, in the exceptional circumstances where a hedgerow may be removed, double the length of hedgerow proposed for removal must now be planted in advance of any removal taking place.
There is also the 'space for nature' option in the Eco-Scheme to recognise farmers who commit a higher proportion of their land to biodiversity. Under the Eco-Scheme and ACRES, there are also hedgerow and tree planting options which will further incentivise farmers to plant trees and new hedgerows.
Under voluntary Agri-Environment Schemes, which have been in place since 1994 to incentivise and promote environmentally sustainable management practices and to maintain and enhance farmland habitats, the planting of approximately 11,000km of new hedgerows and the rejuvenation of a further ~6,000 km.
Under the recent scheme, GLAS (the Green, Low-Carbon, Agri-environment Scheme), 7,247 participants planted over 1,100km of new hedgerows since the scheme began in 2015. Other actions include traditional maintenance of hedgerows which improve their value as a habitat for biodiversity.
103. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a land use strategy is being developed within which aspirations for forestry, for the protection of biodiversity, for climate, for Renewables and for the bioeconomy could be evolved in a coherent manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18544/23]
View answerThe Programme for Government (PfG): 'Our Shared Future' committed to a land use review to ensure that optimal land use options inform all relevant government decisions. This land use review is also outlined in the Climate Action Plan 2021.
The review was designed to be carried out in two distinct phases. Phase 1 was an evidential review and the Phase 1 report, which was published on 10th March 2023, has collated evidence about a wide range of land use issues, including about stakeholders, existing policy and environmental, social and economic characteristics of land use.
Phase 2 of the land use review will build on the outcomes of Phase 1 and will, in consultation with all stakeholders and land users, go on to consider the policies, measures, and actions which will need to be taken — in the context of the Government’s wider economic, social and climate objectives.
Ireland has ambitious plans to increase at scale the area of land under forests. The current forest area is 11.6% and our target is to increase this area to over 18%.
This will require an area of land of approximately 500,000ha. The land Use Review will examine land availability and the wide range of cross cutting demands. Biodiversity, climate, bioeconomy and renewables have the potential to provide opportunities for new and existing forests.
My Department is currently finalising a new Forest Strategy which will focus on five key value areas of climate, nature, wood, people and economic development.
My Department is currently engaging with the European Commission on state aid approval of a €1.3 billion package of measures that will incentivise land owners to plant new forests at scale. Planting new forests must complement out national and EU targets and the outcomes of Phase 2 will be important.
Phase 2 will be jointly led by myself along with the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, and the Minister for Heritage and Electoral Reform.
Currently officials from our respective Departments are engaging on the details of Phase 2, including timelines and specific deliverables.
104. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will accept certification from foresters accredited with his Department as to the status of an ash plantation for the purposes of removal of dead trees and replanting, or whether he is insisting on certification by his own Department’s officials on the matter. [18552/23]
View answerRegarding the administration of the ash dieback scheme, such is the prevalence of the disease throughout the country that my Department no longer requires any damage assessment to be carried out. This was clarified to all registered foresters in a Circular to the trade that issued in June last year.
My Department maintains a register of private foresters who are available for work on the Department forestry schemes. My Department requires that those who wish to be on this list of 'registered foresters' provide the Department with evidence of a suitable forestry qualification and professional indemnity insurance, before admittance onto this list. Those foresters on this list are referred to as 'registered foresters'. My Department does not confer an accreditation to these registered foresters.
However, by being a registered forester one is entitled to make an application for a forestry scheme (including the Reconstitution and Underplanting scheme (RUS) - (Ash Dieback scheme)). Like other schemes all applications when received are then subject to an inspection process by a Departmental Forestry Inspector which may include a physical inspection to confirm that the details in the application are correct.
105. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the measures being taken by his Department to support the overseas marketing of Irish agricultural and food products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17485/23]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, a key element of Food Vision 2030, the Irish agri-food sector's 10-year strategic development plan, is to grow the value of our agri-food exports on international markets. Food Vision identifies a number of actions targeted at realising this growth ambition, including market diversification and market promotion activities.
These include my Department working with industry and Bord Bia to realise new opportunities in countries and regions with growing middle-class populations and rising disposable incomes. These markets are characterised by consumers who have a significant appetite for the high-quality, sustainable and safe dairy, meat, beverages and seafood produced by our farmers, fishers and processors.
A key component of my Department's efforts to market Irish agri-food goods internationally is our Ministerial Trade Mission programme, which we undertake in conjunction with industry and Bord Bia. In 2022 we restarted in-person Trade Missions with visits to the United States, Mexico, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Singapore and Vietnam, as well as European promotional activities in the United Kingdom, France and Germany.
In 2023 we have a further intensive schedule of Trade Missions planned. Minister Heydon has just returned from China, where he supported a number of Irish exporters in promoting their high quality agri-food products at one of China's largest trade fairs in Hainan, and held high-level executive meetings with key customers for Irish food in Shanghai.
I will lead a second trade mission to China in May, including to the SIAL food trade fair in Shanghai, which underlines the Government's commitment to what is the top opportunity market in Asia for Irish agri-food exports.
Later in the year we will have Trade Missions to Nigeria, Senegal, Malaysia, Philippines and to a number of European countries, all of which are key priority growth markets for Irish agri-food exports.
This programme of Ministerial Trade Missions provides important opportunities for the Government to enhance the ongoing efforts of Bord Bia and industry in marketing Ireland's high quality, sustainably produced agri-food products in key priority growth markets.
I can assure the Deputy that my Department and I, as well as Bord Bia, are firmly focused on realising the sector's ambition to grow the value of our exports, as this is also a key element of our commitment to deliver sustainable incomes for our family farms.
106. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline the anticipated steps needed in order to implement carbon farming as a reliable source of income for farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18545/23]
View answerCarbon farming includes those farming practices that remove CO2 from the atmosphere and contribute to the climate neutrality objective. A certification system should enable more effective rewards for carbon farming facilitated through either public or private initiatives.
I am keen to see the implementation of a Carbon Farming Framework in Ireland. Some important groundwork needs to be completed in order to set up a quality and successful scheme which aligns with the EU Commission legislative proposal for a Union certification framework for carbon removals which was published on 30th November 2022.
The stated aim of the initiative is to ensure high-quality EU certified carbon removals, through a transparent and credible governance framework. I am cognisant of the fact that any activity at national level is in line with and complements this EU proposal.
I will start with the steps outlined in the EU certification framework. The Commission proposes that it:
(i) develops certification methodologies, in consultation with experts and stakeholders; and
(ii) harmonises the implementation of the certification framework.
It is anticipated that the EU scheme will come into full operation in 2030. Several milestones will have to be achieved before the scheme becomes active. Firstly, the EU Expert Group on Carbon Removals will complete its work on baselines in 2023. Secondly, the regulation will be published before the end of October 2024.
In 2025, the operational phase of the framework will commence on a phased basis, empowering accreditation and certification bodies, with the establishment of a registry and other frameworks.
The Commission proposal intends that in 2028, all land managers will have access to verified removal data and baseline data collection. In this context, my Department has provided finance for multiple research programmes and projects in this area. This will support real time data analysis will help plan, explore opportunities and prioritise actions to reduce emissions and enhance removals, while aligning with the EU Carbon Removal Certification Framework.
Nationally, there are knowledge and data gaps that will need to be bridged to facilitate carbon farming and that is why I have identified and funded a number of key research and demonstration activities that will also help to provide baseline information on key activities within the agricultural and land use sectors.
In demonstration 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.
These research and demonstration activities along with the recent establishment of the Carbon Farming Working Group, chaired through DAFM, will allow us to address a number of requirements around carbon farming mainly in the areas of establishing baseline data, auditing, governance and address the need for the Measurement, Reporting and Verification (MRV) of carbon removals/reductions.
In the meantime, my department will continue to provide financial support for farmers providing eco system's services through a variety of EU and nationally funded schemes.
107. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he remains aware of the necessity to safeguard Irish food production given the distinct possibility of worldwide food shortages, Ireland’s natural ability to contribute to food production while at the same time addressing climate change issues; if it is accepted that rewetting or rewilding should not impinge on the arable productive land in the country for whatever reason given the dependability of the sector in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18533/23]
View answerIreland is one of the most food secure countries in the world. In fact, Ireland has come second of 113 countries assessed for food security, according to the latest Global Food Security Index.
The 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.
The Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine have a number of policies and strategies in place to ensure Agriculture plays its role in meeting the national climate targets by 2030 and 2050, while continuing to sustainably produce food and feed. The Food Vision 2030 Strategy sets out a pathway to become a world leader in Sustainable Food Systems over the next decade. Food security, food safety and nutrition are key components of Sustainable Food Systems,
The Food Vision Strategy will deliver significant benefits for the Irish agri-food sector itself, for Irish society and the environment. In demonstrating the Irish agri-food sector meets the highest standards of sustainability – economic, environmental, and social – this will also provide the basis for the future competitive advantage of the sector. By adopting an integrated food systems approach, Ireland will seek to become a global leader of innovation for sustainable food and agriculture systems, producing safe, nutritious, and high-value food that tastes great, while protecting and enhancing our natural and cultural resources and contributing to vibrant rural and coastal communities and the national economy.
The Climate Action Plan 2023 also lays out actions specifically for the Agriculture sector to reduce emissions from agriculture and food production. Specific reference is made to the tillage sector and the role it plays in reducing emissions from Agriculture. The tillage and horticulture sectors are the most carbon-efficient sectors of Irish agriculture, and it is important that the area under cultivation in these sectors is increased. Data from 2022 shows an increase in the area of land under tillage, which was supported by a tillage incentive scheme. There is scope to further increase this area, despite increasing land competition from the dairy sector. There is also an opportunity for industry to exploit opportunities for high-value crops, based on changing consumer preferences, creating opportunities for the primary producer both in new food markets and bioeconomy efforts. There is a very clear opportunity to increase the volume of Irish grain being used in the high-value drinks industry, and as a source of protein for the livestock industry.
Regarding the Land Use and Land Use Change sector, Ireland's land is currently an overall 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 and promoting actions on those lands which are removing emissions, such as through good hedgerow management. Ireland cannot achieve climate neutrality without the land use sector making changes 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.
108. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of staff he has on secondment to the Department of Foreign Affairs in Brussels to assist with Ireland's work at EU Council and it’s the engagement with the EU Commission; the corresponding number of staff on secondment on 23 June 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16917/23]
View answerMy Department supports the Government initiative "A Career for EU”, Ireland’s strategy to increase Irish representation in the European Union's Institutions and Agencies to make sure Ireland maintains its influence within the EU’s institutions for years to come.
My Department currently has total of three officers in Attache roles who are serving in Brussels through secondment to the Department of Foreign Affairs. The corresponding figure on 23rd June 2016 was also three officers. In each of the years in question, one officer was deployed at Counsellor level (which is equivalent to Principal Officer grade) and a further two officers were deployed at First Secretary level (which is equivalent to Assistant Principal grade).
In addition to the above roles, my Department currently has one Executive Officer seconded to the Department of Foreign Affairs and assigned to the Permanent Representative, Brussels. This officer provides support to my Department officials through attendance and reporting on weekly meetings of the Special Committee on Agriculture, monthly meetings of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council, management of the day-to-day administration within the Agriculture Office, co-ordination of briefing material and logistical organisation. On 23rd June 2016 there was also one staff member assigned to this position.
From time to time, my Department allocates staff to Seconded National Expert positions and National Expert in Professional Training scheme opportunities. My Department engages with the Department of Foreign Affairs in the promotion and advertisement of these opportunities across my Department. These posts would be additional to the positions described above.
My Department regularly reviews its overseas assignments, assessing vacancies in line with workforce planning, to ensure that our presence abroad supports the national interest, enhances market access and is delivering on the expected benefits.
109. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine what his Department is doing to assist the sheep sector. [18555/23]
View answerA vibrant sheep sector is as an integral element of a balanced regional economy and I know that sheep farmers are committed to producing a world-class, safe and sustainable product.
Although there has been a solid and sustained increase in average sheep prices since the end of February, I recognise that sheep farmers are experiencing more difficult market conditions in 2023 compared to recent years. Market prices, however, are a commercial matter to be bargained between suppliers and buyers and Government has no role in determining commodity prices in the sheep sector.
However, with hoggets crossing €7/kg and lambs exceeding €8/kg, it is heartening to see markets returning better prices than at the start of the year.
To bolster the sustainability of sheep farming, my Department provides significant support to the sector under the new CAP Strategic Plan (CSP), both through a new targeted scheme for sheep farmers - the Sheep Improvement Scheme, which aims to improve sheep health and welfare - and through the broad range of schemes in the CSP.
My Department has received over 19,000 applications for the new Sheep Improvement Scheme, which has a 20% increase in the payment rate per ewe - from €10 to €12 - compared to the previous Sheep Welfare Scheme.
The CSP provides almost €10 billion in supports over the period to 2027 for farm families. Sheep farmers are eligible for several other CSP schemes, including the ACRES and Organics schemes, which are particularly suited to sheep enterprises or mixed beef and sheep enterprises, and which are likely to provide higher direct payments to sheep farmers this year.
I have secured places for all 46,000 farmers in ACRES which I am certain will also benefit many sheep farmers.
Furthermore, support for early-stage producer organisations, which will be introduced later this year, will strengthen the position of sheep farmers in the supply chain.
Additionally, over the last year I have supported livestock farmers in dealing with increased costs by introducing:
- a €56 million fodder incentive scheme;
- an innovative €8 million national liming programme; and
- a €2.5m package for multi-species swards and red clover to reduce reliance on chemical fertilisers.
While market returns have reduced for sheep farmers, mainly because of increased input costs, Teagasc forecasts suggest that family farm income for specialised sheep farms in 2023 will be €19,500, a reduction of 2% on 2022. This reflects the important role which direct payments play in supporting sheep farm incomes.
With regard to the current challenges facing the sector, I have requested my officials to maintain close monitoring of market trends over the coming months and the Government will continue to make every effort to support the sector.
Having grown up on a suckler and sheep farm in Donegal, I am acutely aware of the skill and dedication of sheep farmers here. I want to ensure that there is a long-term and successful sector for this and subsequent generations of sheep farmers.
110. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the work that he is undertaking to support Ireland’s wool industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16915/23]
View answerI thank the Deputy for his continued interest in this matter.
In July 2022, the Programme for Government commitment was delivered with the publication of the Wool Review Report.
One of the main recommendations of the report was the establishment of an independent Wool Council led by industry which would develop and promote Irish wool domestically and internationally and bring together multiple stakeholders to foster collaboration, innovation and scaling activities in the wool sector.
In support of this recommendation my Department committed €30,000 in financial assistance towards the initial set up costs of this independent council.
In December 2022, a preliminary meeting of the stakeholders interested in forming a Wool Council took place. This group discussed their common aims as well as agreeing to establish a stakeholder led working group to progress the establishment of the Wool Council. Officials from my Department also attended this meeting to outline the criteria needed to draw down the seed funding of €30,000.
The Irish Grown Wool Council was officially launched on the 5th April 2023. The launch was very well attended with representation from all sectors of the wool industry including primary producers, farming organisations and industry from both Ireland and Northern Ireland present on the day. My officials also attended this meeting to monitor the Council formation process and to ensure that the council membership included full representation of all industry sectors.
Following the initial set up period, the Irish Grown Wool Council will be an independent stakeholder led Council comprising of stakeholders from all sectors of the wool industry. My Department does not hold a seat on the Council. Further details regarding the Irish Grown Wool Council can be obtained directly from the Council by contacting irishgrownwoolcouncil@gmail.com.
I am very supportive of the establishment of this independent industry-led Wool Council. I hope it will bring wool stakeholders across the island of Ireland together to realise the potential of wool as a natural, sustainable and versatile material and generate a roadmap to address the current challenges and create future opportunities for this wonderful product.
111. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to studies showing that Government policies to tackle climate change are causing a mental health crisis among farmers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17708/23]
View answerI thank the Deputy for this question on such an important topic.
Farming is one of the most rewarding professions but it can be a challenging and difficult career choice too.
Mental health is a critical issue facing all of society and farmers are not exempt. I am aware of studies which have revealed the extent to which Irish farmers are experiencing a range of challenges and stressors that are negatively impacting their mental health. They highlight the importance of mental health initiatives to support farmers.
This Government has prioritised farm safety, health and wellbeing and secured dedicated funding of €2.5m in budget 2023 for a range of initiatives including initiatives to support increased awareness of mental health among farmers.
My Department, along with the HSE and the Department of Health, is co-funding a farmers physical and mental health awareness programme called, ‘On Feirm Ground’. Approximately 250 agricultural advisors have received training. This year, the programme will be rolled out to Department staff and other professionals who are in regular contact with farmers.
We are also funding eight farm safety European Innovation Partnerships projects to the value of €1.8m including four projects focused on farmers’ mental health. Additional funding has been made available to extend these projects into 2023.
We have provide support for research into farmer mental health. It is funding the DCU led FarmHealth Research Project which is examining farmers mental health literacy and help-seeking behaviour which will inform the development of an educational mental health intervention for farmers.
The current Thematic Research Call is seeking proposals on a range of research themes including proposals focusing on farmer’s safety, health and wellbeing. The deadline for submissions is this Friday 21 April.
Working closely with the HSA’s Farm Safety Partnership, my Department was involved in the publication of its “Farmers’ Health and Wellbeing” booklet, which includes a section on coping with stress and minding your mental health. The booklet was included in the 2023 BISS packs issued to over 122,000 farmers.
DAFM's Farm Safety, Health and Wellbeing webpage includes links and contact numbers to helplines for a range of support organisations for any farmer or family member needing assistance with mental health. A link to the Teagasc/Mental Health Ireland booklet “Coping with the Pressures of Farming” is also listed on the webpage.
Ireassure the Deputy that farm safety, health and wellbeing is a priority for me and my colleague, Minister of State Martin Heydon T.D, who has special responsibility in this area and is doing tremendous work supporting the health and wellbeing of our farmers.
112. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 278 of 8 March 2023, the status of the establishment of the Wool Council; the number of meetings held to date; the terms of reference for the Council; to clarify the status of his Department's role on, or reporting relationship with, the Wool Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17290/23]
View answerI thank the Deputy for her ongoing interest in this matter.
As the Deputy is aware, one of the main recommendations of the Wool Feasibility Report is the establishment of an ‘Irish Grown Wool Council’ which would be industry-led and have multiple stakeholders from the wool sector including primary producers, farmers and commercial enterprises willing to fund research and promotion.
In support of this recommendation, my Department pledged financial assistance of €30,000 towards the initial set up costs of this independent council.
In December 2022, a preliminary meeting of the stakeholders interested in forming a Wool Council took place. This group discussed their common aims as well as agreeing to establish a stakeholder led working group to take the next steps in formally establishing the Wool Council. Officials from my Department also attended this meeting to outline the criteria needed to draw down the seed funding of €30,000.
On the 5th April 2023, over 50 stakeholders from the wool sector attended a meeting to officially launch the Irish Grown Wool Council. Attendees included primary producers, farming organisations and industry representatives from both Ireland and Northern Ireland. My officials also attended this meeting to monitor the Council formation process and to ensure that the council membership included full representation of all industry sectors.
All details regarding the terms of reference and council membership can be obtained directly from the Council by contacting irishgrownwoolcouncil@gmail.com.
Following the initial set up period, the Irish Grown Wool Council will be an independent stakeholder led Council comprising of stakeholders from all sectors of the wool industry. My Department does not hold a seat on the Council.
I am delighted that the Irish Grown Wool Council has been formally launched and I look forward to seeing the recommendations of the Wool Feasibility Study brought to fruition. I believe that this Council will help drive further value to wool to benefit our sheep farmers and seek a more favourable outlook for the future of Irelands wool industry.
Wool is a tremendous product - it is durable, versatile and sustainable. It is my ambition that the new Wool Council will help drive further value for wool to benefit our sheep farmers.
113. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of the new Forestry Programme, including when it is expected that new applications will be accepted into the scheme. [18549/23]
View answerThe new and ambitious €1.3bn Forestry Programme 2023-2027 will replace the previous Forestry Programme of 2014-2020 (extended to 2022) which expired at the end of 2022.
We have been working intensively and proactively with the European Commission to secure State Aid approval for the new Programme. Once State Aid approval that has been received we will be in a position to launch the new Programme, pending finalisation of the Strategic Environmental Assessment, which I am assured is nearing completion.
In addition, my Department recently received State aid approval through the Agricultural Block Exemption Regulation (EU) 2022/2472 for some of the measures in the draft Forestry Programme 2023-2027.
These include the Forest Road Scheme, Innovative Forest Technology Scheme , Reconstitution Scheme, Reconstitution Scheme for Ash Dieback, Forestry Knowledge Transfer Groups (KTGs), Training Call for proposals, Forest Promotion and Continuous Professional Development. My Department are now accepting application for forest roads this week and are examining the possibilities to open a number of the other schemes for applications very shortly.
At this time, all applications that are in the system are being worked on and processed in the normal manner, progressing to the point just before certification and approval. The aim is to have all the work done on as many grant aid files as possible so that approvals will be ready to issue as soon as the state aid approval is granted.
I launched the Interim De Minimis scheme for afforestation and roads to help bridge the lacuna between the old and new Forestry Programmes. As you are aware, there are 1,023 approved afforestation licences with 7,591 ha ready for planting and to date over 1,500ha hectares have been approved for planting under the Interim De Minimis scheme.
I assure you that the launch of the new €1.3bn Forestry Programme 2023-2027 is a matter of the utmost priority for me and my Department.
114. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine how his Department plans to respond to the six recommendations, 120 to 125, in the Report of the Citizens Assembly on Biodiversity Loss that relate to forestry, woodlands and hedgerows; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17870/23]
View answerI welcome the recent recommendations from the Citizens Assembly on Biodiversity Loss following the publication of the final report on the work of the Assembly on 5th April 2023.
The report includes 159 recommendations. These include 73 high-level recommendations and 86 sectoral specific actions and priorities. These recommendations and related policy implications, particularly those that relate to forestry, woodlands and hedgerows in a forestry context, are under consideration by my Department at this time.
As the Deputy may be aware, my Department has recently published a Shared National Vision for Trees, Woods and Forests in Ireland until 2050 which was informed by a series of extensive engagements and consultations. This Vision has informed a new Forestry Strategy for Ireland, which has been developed through Project Woodland. An extensive public consultation process on the new Strategy has taken place including bilateral stakeholder meetings early in 2022 which included the nursery sector and Forest Industries Ireland who represent the sector.
In parallel, a draft Forest Strategy Implementation Plan has also been developed to facilitate the initial steps in the implementation of this Forest Strategy. This Plan comprises a list of actions and measures and includes the Forestry Programme for the period 2023-2027, which will be the main implementation vehicle for the Forest Strategy in the immediate to short term.
The importance of having a sustainable supply of plants and forest reproductive material is recognised in the Draft Forest Strategy and within its Implementation Plan. Action 49 in the draft Plan includes the introduction of support schemes to increase the quality and quantity of plants and forest reproductive material. The implementation of this action is accounted for in the Draft Forestry Programme under Intervention 1 (Forest Creation: FT3 Seed Orchards), Intervention 3 (Investment Aid for the Development of the Forest Tree Nursery Sector) and Intervention 4 (Sustainable Forest Management: Seed Stand Management). Taken together these support schemes aim to increase the quantity and quality of plants and reproductive material for use in the forest sector.
Under the new Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) which forms part of Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan, farmers who participate in the Scheme choose, at the time of application, from a range of actions that are designed to improve habitats for a wide range of species while also targeting water quality and climate mitigation and adaptation. There are five tree and hedgerow-related actions available to farmers which they commit to carry out on their holdings for five years. The actions specifically relating to hedgerows are planting of new hedgerows and rejuvenation of existing hedgerows through laying or coppicing. While hedgerows are a dominant habitat on most Irish farms, it is noted that the quality of many hedgerows is poor. The inclusion of two specific hedgerow rejuvenation actions in ACRES seeks to improve their quality, extend their lifespan and enable those hedgerows to better support biodiversity in the future.
We will, of course, engage with any follow-up framework for the implementation of the recommendations contained within the Report.
115. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on the work of the wool council. [18490/23]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, one of the main recommendations of the Wool Feasibility Report which was published in July 2022, was the establishment of an independent ‘Irish Grown Wool Council’ which would be industry-led and have multiple stakeholders from the wool sector including primary producers, farmers and commercial enterprises willing to fund research and promotion. In support of this recommendation my Department committed financial assistance of €30,000 towards the initial set up costs of this independent council.
In December 2022, a meeting of the stakeholders interested in forming a Wool Council took place. This group discussed their common aims as well as agreeing to establish a stakeholder led working group to take the next steps in formally establishing the Wool Council. Officials from my Department also attended this meeting to outline the criteria needed to draw down the seed funding of €30,000.
On the 5th April 2023 over 50 stakeholders from the wool sector attended a meeting to officially launch the Irish Grown Wool Council. The meeting was very well attended with representatives from farming organisations, industry and primary producers from both Ireland and Northern Ireland present. My officials were also present at this meeting to oversee the Council formation process and to ensure that the council membership included full representation of all industry sectors.
Following the initial set up period, the Irish Grown Wool Council will be an independent stakeholder led Council comprising of stakeholders from all sectors of the wool industry. My Department does not hold a seat on the Council. All details regarding the Irish Grown Wool Council can be obtained directly from the Council by contacting irishgrownwoolcouncil@gmail.com.
I note that this is the first time in Ireland that an all-island Irish Grown Wool Council has been formed to bring together stakeholders from both sides of the border to focus on improving the Irish wool sector. I am very supportive of this Council which I believe can provide a pathway towards maximising the true potential of this valuable natural resource long into the future.
Wool is a tremendous product - it is durable, versatile and sustainable. It is my ambition that the new Wool Council will help drive further value for wool to benefit our sheep farmers.
116. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the plans, if any, to facilitate farmers trading carbon credits; if he intends to establish a verifiable framework to record and manage net carbon sequestration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16914/23]
View answerCarbon farming includes those farming practices that remove CO2 from the atmosphere and contribute to the climate neutrality objective.
A certification system should enable more effective rewards for carbon farming facilitated through either public or private initiatives.
I am keen to see the implementation of a Carbon Farming Framework in Ireland. Some important groundwork needs to be completed in order to set up a quality and successful scheme which aligns with the EU Commission legislative proposal for a Union certification framework for carbon removals which was published on 30th November 2022. The stated aim of the initiative is to ensure high-quality EU certified carbon removals, through a transparent and credible governance framework. I am cognisant of the fact that any activity at national level is in line with and compliments this EU proposal.
I will start with the steps outlined in the EU certification framework. The Commission proposes that it:
(i) develops certification methodologies, in consultation with experts and stakeholders; and
(ii) harmonises the implementation of the certification framework.
It is anticipated that the EU scheme will come into full operation in 2030. Several milestones will have to be achieved before the scheme becomes active. Firstly, the EU Expert Group on Carbon Removals will complete its work on baselines in 2023. Secondly, the regulation will be published before the end of October 2024.
The Commission's intention is that in 2025, the operational phase of the framework will commence on a phased basis, empowering accreditation and certification bodies, with the establishment of a registry and other frameworks.
In 2028, all land managers will have access to verified removal data and baseline data collection. In this context, my Department has provided finance for multiple research programmes and projects in this area. This will support real time data analysis will help plan, explore opportunities and prioritise actions to reduce emissions and enhance removals, while aligning with the EU Carbon Removal Certification Framework.
Nationally, there are knowledge and data gaps that will need to be bridged to facilitate carbon farming and that is why I have identified and funded a number of key research and demonstration activities that will also help to provide baseline information on key activities within the agricultural and land use sectors.
In demonstration 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.
These research and demonstration activities along with the recent establishment of the Carbon Farming Working Group, chaired through DAFM, will allow us to address a number of requirements around carbon farming mainly in the areas of establishing baseline data, auditing, governance and address the need for the Measurement, Reporting and Verification (MRV) of carbon removals/reductions.
In the meantime, we will continue to provide financial support for farmers providing eco system's services through a variety of EU and nationally funded schemes.
I want to see the carbon farming model progress as quickly as possible as I believe it can play an important role in developing a new income stream for farmers in the time time ahead.
117. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine how his Department plans to respond to the 17 recommendations, 74 to 90, in the Report of the Citizens Assembly on Biodiversity Loss that relate to agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17869/23]
View answerMy Officials are currently considering the recommendations related to Agriculture within the report referred to by the Deputy. In many cases actions are already in place to deliver on the report's recommendations.
My Department recognises that biodiversity is a keystone to our way of life and an important agenda item for us all. As a result, biodiversity is supported through a variety of schemes and programmes at national and local level, and I will continue, along with my colleagues in Government, to strive to improve our biodiversity.
Maintaining and improving biodiversity is a core objective within Ireland's CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) which commenced in January. As part of that plan, the Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) is building on the leanings from previous smaller projects, including the European Innovation Partnerships (EIPs), to increase the focus on results-based payments and the locally led approach especially through the ACRES Co-operation Projects where we expect to witness significant progress towards meeting biodiversity targets.
The introduction of a new definition of land eligibility for direct payments under the CSP is already ensuring farmers are not restricted "in their ambition to make change for the benefit of biodiversity". Furthermore, the ambitious targets set for organic farming under the CSP, and the strong uptake we are already witnessing, will also contribute to meeting recommendations within the Citizens' Assembly's Report.
Outside the CSP, new initiatives such as the Native Woodland Establishment scheme and the Agro-forestry scheme will also help towards achieving our tree planting goals under the EU Biodiversity Strategy. Other schemes such as the Multi-Species Swards Measure and the Red Clover Silage Measure also aim to promote environmentally sustainable methods of farming which will not only have a positive impact on greenhouse gas emissions but will also lead to enhanced biodiversity both above and below ground while addressing a further recommendation within the report.
Support and engagement with farmers, the custodians of our landscape, will remain a critical factor in achieving the our goals for biodiversity within Ireland.
118. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the measures he intends to introduce to help the sheep sector. [18488/23]
View answerA vibrant sheep sector is as an integral element of a balanced regional economy and I know that sheep farmers are committed to producing a world-class, safe and sustainable product.
Although there has been a solid and sustained increase in average sheep prices since the end of February, I recognise that sheep farmers are experiencing more difficult market conditions in 2023 compared to recent years. Market prices, however, are a commercial matter to be bargained between suppliers and buyers and Government has no role in determining commodity prices in the sheep sector.
To bolster the sustainability of sheep farming, my Department provides significant support to the sector under the new CAP Strategic Plan (CSP), both through a new targeted scheme for sheep farmers - the Sheep Improvement Scheme, which aims to improve sheep health and welfare - and through the broad range of schemes in the CSP.
My Department has received over 19,000 applications for the new Sheep Improvement Scheme, which has a 20% increase in the payment rate per ewe - from €10 to €12 - compared to the previous Sheep Welfare Scheme.
The CSP provides almost €10 billion in supports over the period to 2027 for farm families. Sheep farmers are eligible for several other CSP schemes, including the ACRES and Organics schemes, which are particularly suited to sheep enterprises or mixed beef and sheep enterprises, and which are likely to provide higher direct payments to sheep farmers this year.
I have secured places for all 46,000 farmers in ACRES which I am certain will also benefit many sheep farmers.
Furthermore, support for early-stage producer organisations, which will be introduced later this year, will strengthen the position of sheep farmers in the supply chain.
Additionally, over the last year I have supported livestock farmers in dealing with increased costs by introducing:
- a €56 million fodder incentive scheme;
- an innovative €8 million national liming programme; and
- a €2.5m package for multi-species swards and red clover to reduce reliance on chemical fertilisers.
While market returns have reduced for sheep farmers, mainly because of increased input costs, Teagasc forecasts suggest that family farm income for specialised sheep farms in 2023 will be €19,500, a reduction of 2% on 2022. This reflects the important role which direct payments play in supporting sheep farm incomes.
With regard to the current challenges facing the sector, I have requested my officials to maintain close monitoring of market trends over the coming months and the Government will continue to make every effort to support the sector.
Having grown up on a sheep and suckler farm in Donegal, I am acutely aware of the skill and dedication of sheep farmers here. I want to ensure that there is a long-term and successful sector for this and subsequent generations of sheep farmers.
119. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine what measures he will take financially or otherwise to assist farmers in meeting potential new targets with respect to the new Nitrates Action Programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18588/23]
View answerThe purpose of the Nitrates Action Programme, since its introduction in 2006, has been to prevent pollution of waterbodies from agricultural sources and to protect and improve water quality.
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH) is the lead authority for the Nitrates Regulations and the Nitrates Action Programme (NAP). My Department works very closely with DHLGH in this regard.
The Government cannot provide funding for farmers to comply with minimum regulatory requirements. However, the Government continues to fund non-regulatory approaches, for example by contributing to the funding of the Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP) or through the TAMS support for on-farm investments which are available to farmers for a period following introduction of new legal requirements
In addition, a further €60 million has been made available under the CAP strategic plan and for a Water European Innovation Partnership (EIP) and which closed earlier this year . The proposals submitted are currently being assessed.
The objective of this EIP is to reward and incentivise farmers who are willing to apply voluntary measures above meeting regulatory minimum requirements to improve water quality.
The Government has also introduced the accelerated capital allowances for investments in slurry storage facilities. This allows eligible expenditure to be claimed over two years for tax purposes thereby providing another incentive to encourage farmers to invest to improve water quality.
In the long-term our water quality trends will determine whether a continuation of Ireland's Nitrate’s Derogation can be secured from the European Commission. I believe the entire agri-food sector must strengthen its commitment and work together to deliver measures that will drive improvements in our water quality.
I committed to securing the Nitrates Derogation as I believe it plays an important role in supporting productive family farming.
120. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will extend the traditional farm buildings grant scheme to include all farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18580/23]
View answerThe Traditional Farm Building Scheme was launched in 2016 as an agri-environmental measure under the Rural Development Programme 2014–2020. It built upon the success of the Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme which operated under REPS 4 from 2007 to 2013 and ensured that more than 350 buildings throughout Ireland were conserved for agricultural use. I am delighted to be able to continue it under the new CAP also and recently announced its opening for 2023.
The Scheme works to enhance the contribution traditional farm buildings bring to the rural landscape and our cultural heritage. It provides farmers with a once-off grant for approved conservation work to traditional farm buildings and associated structures. All traditional buildings that are used for agricultural purposes, or available for such use, will be considered as part of the measure. Approved conservation of traditional farm building and other farmyard features, such as pillars and gates may be considered eligible investments.
The Scheme is administered in partnership with the Heritage Council, who evaluate applications, inspect the works, and approve grants for payment. All payments are processed by my Department. The Scheme recently opened for 2023 and I am pleased to report I raised the maximum grant payable from €25,000 to €30,000. I also secured €1.25 million in the budget once again for this grant scheme supporting farmers to secure historic buildings on their farm for the benefit of the wider society.
I am pleased to continue the important partnership between my Department and the Heritage Council, who have been critical to the success of the Scheme. The pooling of resources and expertise is essential to its delivery.
Previously, the scheme was only open to those who were approved participants in GLAS. I widened the potential pool of applicants to farmers participating in the following:
Active agri-environment scheme participants including ACRES.
EIP Calls 1, 2 and 3, Hen Harrier and Pearl Mussel projects and the Burren Scheme, who were an active participant as of 31st December 2022 or had completed the full term of the contract for the relevant EIP, or have completed a five-year contract, as appropriate.
An approved participant (approvals issued February 2023) of the Organic Farm Scheme.
This will significantly widen the potential pool of eligible applicants and provide approximately 50,000 potential farmer applicants.
