David Stanton
Question:121. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the measures his Department is taking to support inshore fishermen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17484/23]
View answerInshore Fisheries
Questions (121)
Written answers
I have been responsive to the needs of the Inshore sector in terms of financial support. In February I announced the reopening the Sustainable Fisheries Scheme (Part B). This scheme provides grant aid for on-board capital investment in fishing vessels and will be an important opportunity to maintain investment in the fleet and to enable vessel owners invest in environmentally progressive sustainable fishing.
As the Deputy is aware, in 2022 I launched the Brexit Inshore Fisheries Business Model Adjustment Scheme to assist inshore fishers to adapt their business operations to the post Brexit environment. Under this scheme 800 inshore fishers were provided with online training modules and awarded between €2,700 and €4,000 each.
This week, during my engagement with representatives of the Inshore sector, I was pleased to announce the reopening of this scheme with a new selection of training modules. Eligible applicants will again receive payments of between €2,700 and €4,000 and a total budget of €3.5 million has been allocated to fund the scheme.
These two rounds of funding are in addition to the other schemes developed which have direct and indirect benefits for the Inshore sector. These include €55 million in funding for marine infrastructure, €1 million in funding for promotion of Inshore stocks and funding for entrepreneurial opportunities aligned with the inshore sector.
As we transition out of BAR funding, Ireland’s European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) Seafood Development Programme will come to the fore. The €258 million programme will provide a wide range of supports for fishers and the wider development of the seafood sector. Inshore representatives form part of the monitoring committee for this programme and will have opportunity to input into the development of schemes to support the sector.
With the assistance of my Department, the National Inshore Fisherman’s Association (NIFA) achieved recognition as a Producer Organisation and joined the Irish Islands Marine Resource Organisation (IIMRO) in representing the Inshore sector. These organisations will ensure greater representation for the Inshore sector and through the implementation of Production and Marketing Plans, will ensure the sustainable development opportunities for their members. Both of these organisations are eligible for funding under Ireland’s EMFF and EMFAF Programmes, to assist them in the achievement of their aims.
In addition to funding, my Department and BIM are continuing to assist the National Inshore Fisheries forum with the implementation of its strategy. The inshore fishing sector is a vital part of our coastal economies and communities. I am committed to supporting this and the wider seafood sector in achieving its potential.
Forestry Sector
Questions (122)
Michael Lowry
Question:122. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide compensation, reconstitution grant aid and annual forest premiums for forest owners impacted with the fatal Ash dieback disease and if so, when; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18535/23]
View answerWritten answers
The Deputy may be aware that the first confirmed finding of Ash Dieback Disease (Hymenoscyphus fraxineaus) in Ireland was made on 12th October 2012 at a forestry plantation site which had been planted in 2009 with trees imported from continental Europe.
In March 2013, the Department introduced a Reconstitution Scheme (Chalara Ash Dieback) to restore forests planted under the afforestation scheme which had suffered from, or which were associated with plants affected by disease.
Following a Review of the National Response to Ash Dieback Disease arising from scientific advice and evidence that eradication of ash dieback disease is no longer feasible the Reconstitution and Underplanting Scheme (Ash Dieback) was launched in June 2020.
A total of €9.25 million has been expended to date on both schemes. These schemes included a grant for site clearance as well as replanting.
Last month, I launched an Interim Reconstitution Scheme for Ash Dieback via general de minimis which contains a doubling of site clearance rates, increased grant rates and an improved premium regime. The interim scheme includes the following enhanced features:
• Enhanced site clearance grant rate, increased to €2,000.
• Enhanced grant rates as per draft Forestry programme 2023-2027
• Those applicants whose sites are still in premium will continue to receive the premium due for the remaining years.
• In addition, for those in receipt of farmer rate of premium, a top up premium equal to the difference between the equivalent forestry type and the existing premium will be paid. This will be calculated for the remaining years left in premium and paid in a single sum.
This scheme is available to 154 current approvals covering an area of 477 hectares.
A similar scheme for the reconstitution of ash dieback will be launched as part of the new forestry programme.
State Aid Guidelines provide for aid for the restoration of damage to forests caused by a variety of events including damage from disease and pests. State Aid rules are explicit that this aid is for restoration and does not facilitate compensation for other loss, including income. There are 7,000 hectares of grant aided ash which remain in premium for periods ranging from one to eleven years.
My Department continues to review the operation of the ash dieback scheme, having regard to its effectiveness, the status of the plantations, state aid regulations and other issues having regard to the age and stage of the rotation of the almost 16,000 hectares of ash that were grant aided between 1999 and 2013.
EU Directives
Questions (123)
Robert Troy
Question:123. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on negotiations with the EU on the possibility of an extension of the nitrates derogation in order to allow time for appropriate assessment of the effect of changes to previous regulations on water quality. [18487/23]
View answerWritten answers
During the negotiations of Ireland’s current Nitrates Derogation and since the European Commission published its Implementing Decision granting Ireland's Nitrates Derogation covering the period 2022-2025, officials from my Department and officials from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage have actively engaged on several occasions with the European Commission on nitrates and water quality issues. This proactive engagement is expected to continue.
In light of negative trends in Irish water quality during the run-up to Ireland’s application for the current Nitrates Derogation, additional conditionality was included as part of the Commission’s decision to grant the derogation.
This Conditionality included the requirement to conduct a two-year review of water quality, this year. The review must compare water quality data for 2021 and 2022. Where this data shows that there are polluted waters, or waters at risk of pollution that are not showing signs of improvement, or where worsening trends have occurred over this period, the maximum stocking rate limit for derogation farms must be reduced from 250kg to 220kg livestock manure nitrogen per hectare from 2024 onwards. The EPA is currently working to provide the water quality data that will be used in this review.
As part of the current Nitrates Action Programme, the scope of some existing measures was broadened, other measures were expanded and a number of new measures were introduced to drive improvements in water quality.
My officials are preparing a case to engage further with the European Commission with the objective of seeking flexibility from them on the two-year water quality review with a view to giving existing measures more time to demonstrate their impact. However, there is no guarantee that there will be a change to the Commission's Implementing Decision as it stands.
I want to secure the Nitrates Derogation into the future as it plays an important role in supporting productive family farming.
Inshore Fisheries
Questions (124)
Holly Cairns
Question:124. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he is taking to support the inshore fishing sector. [18346/23]
View answerWritten answers
I have been responsive to the needs of the Inshore sector in terms of financial support. In February I announced the reopening the Sustainable Fisheries Scheme (Part B). This scheme provides grant aid for on-board capital investment in fishing vessels and will be an important opportunity to maintain investment in the fleet and to enable vessel owners invest in environmentally progressive sustainable fishing.
As the Deputy is aware, in 2022 I launched the Brexit Inshore Fisheries Business Model Adjustment Scheme to assist inshore fishers to adapt their business operations to the post Brexit environment. Under this scheme 800 inshore fishers were provided with online training modules and awarded between €2,700 and €4,000 each.
This week, during my engagement with representatives of the Inshore sector, I was pleased to announce the reopening of this scheme with a new selection of training modules. Eligible applicants will again receive payments of between €2,700 and €4,000 and a total budget of €3.5 million has been allocated to fund the scheme.
These two rounds of funding are in addition to the other schemes developed which have direct and indirect benefits for the Inshore sector. These include €55 million in funding for marine infrastructure, €1 million in funding for promotion of Inshore stocks and funding for entrepreneurial opportunities aligned with the inshore sector.
As we transition out of BAR funding, Ireland’s European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) Seafood Development Programme will come to the fore. The €258 million programme will provide a wide range of supports for fishers and the wider development of the seafood sector. Inshore representatives form part of the monitoring committee for this programme and will have opportunity to input into the development of schemes to support the sector.
With the assistance of my Department, the National Inshore Fisherman’s Association (NIFA) achieved recognition as a Producer Organisation and joined the Irish Islands Marine Resource Organisation (IIMRO) in representing the Inshore sector. These organisations will ensure greater representation for the Inshore sector and through the implementation of Production and Marketing Plans, will ensure the sustainable development opportunities for their members. Both of these organisations are eligible for funding under Ireland’s EMFF and EMFAF Programmes, to assist them in the achievement of their aims.
In addition to funding, my Department and BIM are continuing to assist the National Inshore Fisheries forum with the implementation of its strategy. The inshore fishing sector is a vital part of our coastal economies and communities. I am committed to supporting this and the wider seafood sector in achieving its potential.
Environmental Policy
Questions (125)
Aindrias Moynihan
Question:125. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans on ending the use of creosote; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18538/23]
View answerWritten answers
The approval and uses of creosote as a wood preservative were recently reviewed under the EU Biocidal Products Regulation. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is the Competent Authority in Ireland with responsibility for this legislation.
The EU review process, which was managed by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), resulted in a renewal of approval for creosote that was limited in its scope due to significant concerns, including the carcinogenic potential for humans. This means there is a cancer risk for humans associated with the use of creosote.
Permitted uses were restricted to industrial vacuum pressure impregnation of wood used for railway sleepers, electricity poles and telecommunications poles only.
The renewal Regulation came into force on 1st November 2022 and stipulates that from 30th April 2023 only railway sleepers or utility poles for electricity or telecommunications treated with creosote may be placed on the market in EU Member States.
Timber already treated with creosote and sold to end users before 30th April 2023, can be used after that date.
Officials within the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine have engaged proactively with stakeholders to raise awareness about the restrictions on creosote use and their implications.
Details on the alternative products can be found on the our website (www.pcs.agriculture.gov.ie). The Department continues to work to progress the availability of further alternative wood preservative products.
Agriculture Industry
Questions (126)
Brian Stanley
Question:126. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to reassess the additional measures being put in place which have only commenced this year regarding nitrates and to work with the farm organisations to improve biodiversity on pasture lands. [17842/23]
View answerWritten answers
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH) is the lead authority for the Nitrates Regulations and the associated interim review of the 5th Nitrates Action Programme (NAP). My Department works very closely with DHLGH in this regard.
The interim review of the 2022 to 2025 NAP will take place in the coming months. The purpose of the review is to undertake an assessment of the effectiveness of the current NAP measures and to introduce any new measures that may be needed to reflect recent water quality data, significant changes to the agricultural sector and/or any other data considered relevant.
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 agrifood sector must strengthen its commitment and work together to deliver measures that will drive improvements in our water quality and the broader environment.
In addition to CAP Schemes such as Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) and the Eco-Scheme, I have recently launched a number of nationally funded schemes, such as the National Liming Programme, the Multispecies Swards Measure and the Red Clover Silage Measure. These schemes are all aimed at improving and increasing soil and plant biodiversity. In addition, they also have co-benefits of improving overall environmental and economic sustainability on our farms.
Harbours and Piers
Questions (127)
Holly Cairns
Question:127. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide his response to a resolution from Cork County Council that he meets with a delegation of Dáil Deputies and councillors from west Cork to discuss funding to reconstruct Keelbeg Pier. [18348/23]
View answerWritten answers
No doubt the Deputy is aware of the Brexit Adjustment: Local Authority Marine Infrastructure Scheme 2022-2023. The BALAMI Scheme gives effect to one of the recommendations of the Seafood Sector Taskforce which I established to identify how to address the impacts of Brexit on the seafood sector. This scheme is proposed to be funded in the main from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve.
The Scheme assists the development of the marine economy in coastal communities by aiming to give immediate construction stimulus to those coastal communities affected by Brexit. Each of the projects will be delivered by the local authority which owns and maintains the relevant marine infrastructure. The focus of the scheme is on supporting actual capital works and it is a matter for each local authority to progress any preparatory studies, permitting and design works.
Cork County Council has secured a scheme contribution of €6.032m for the funding of 20 projects. In total the Scheme has approved 164 project for funding of up to €55.3m. Cork County Council had applied for funding for Keelbeg Pier under the Scheme but the proposed project did not meet the Scheme criteria and so was ineligible.
Prior to the BALAMI Scheme, my Department provided funding to assist in carrying out small scale projects for the development and repair of local authority owned piers, harbours and slipways under the annual Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme. Over 2020 and 2021, Cork County Council received funding of €183,000 for various safety improvement works at Keelbeg Pier. The Brexit Adjustment Reserve funding to support the BALAMI Scheme is unprecedented. Any future supports that may be made available to support local authority capital investment in piers and harbours will have to consider the available Exchequer funding and overall national priorities.
Responsibility for the development and maintenance of local authority owned piers, harbours and slipways rests with each local authority in the first instance. I am also mindful that the primary governance role for local authorities rests with the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage and any wider funding issues for local authorities should be addressed to that Minister.
Fishing Industry
Questions (128)
Éamon Ó Cuív
Question:128. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the total mackerel quota available to this country this year; the amount of this quota last year allocated to the five biggest fishing vessels; the amount allocated last year to the inshore sector; the number of boats in the sector; if it is intended to re-balance the allocation of quota in order to give a greater share to the inshore sector this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18204/23]
View answerWritten answers
Ireland's Mackerel quota for 2023 is 52,385 tonnes. In 2022, vessels in the largest category in the RSW Pelagic segment received a catch limit of 2,655 tonnes per vessel. There are eight vessels in this category. In 2022, 400 tonnes was made available to vessel under 15m fishing for mackerel by means of hook and line and 171 tonnes to vessels under 18m fishing mackerel with trawls. There are approximately 1,178 vessels under 12m, commonly referred to as the inshore sector, 62 vessels 12m to 15m and 18 vessels 15m to 18m in length overall which could fish for mackerel.
The Deputy will be aware that the management arrangements for the State’s fisheries, including the Mackerel fishery, have been set and developed over many years since the commencement of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and the introduction of quotas. Pelagic stocks such as Mackerel are managed on an annual or seasonal basis with catch limits set based on allocation regimes developed over many years and related to historical catch records. Amendments to the mackerel policy in 2010 and 2017 were introduced following a full review and public consultation. The 2017 policy is currently subject to a legal challenge in the Courts.
In order to amend Mackerel Policy, I as Minister must be satisfied that there is satisfactory evidence of changed circumstances to justify a policy review. If I consider there is a case for review of any aspect of the policy, it would require due process, involving an assessment of all issues arising, including a full public consultation.
As you will appreciate, there has been, for the past 20 years or so, intensive competition within the industry for a higher share of the mackerel quota. The EU-UK Trade and Co-operation Agreement (TCA) provides for the transfer of 26% of Ireland’s mackerel quota to the UK by 2026. This will only increase demands for a higher share of Ireland’s Mackerel quota from all sectors within the fishing fleet.
Unfortunately, the situation is that if there is an increase in the Mackerel quota for any sector in the allocation made available, it must be taken from others who are already facing significant cuts under the EU-UK Trade and Co-operation Agreement.
There is currently no agreement within the fisheries sector for change from the current approach.
Fishing Industry
Questions (129)
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn
Question:129. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide an update on the latest negotiations with the UK and Scottish governments on reinstating access for the Irish fishing to their traditional fishing grounds at Rockall. [18286/23]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy is aware, Ireland has never made any claims to Rockall, nor has Ireland ever recognised UK sovereignty claims over Rockall and accordingly has not recognised a 12 nautical mile territorial sea around it either. This remains the position of the Government.
The Government has been in contact with the relevant Scottish and UK authorities on Rockall over recent years and intensively since the beginning of 2021.
Through this engagement, the Government is seeking to address the issues involved, reflecting the long-standing fisheries patterns in the area.
Irish vessels have traditionally fished for haddock, which is subject to a quota limit, and squid, which is not subject to a quota limit, in the waters around Rockall. Haddock may be caught both within and outside 12 nautical miles of Rockall but Squid is caught within 6 nautical miles of Rockall. Other stocks caught in the waters around Rockall, both within the 12 miles area and outside, are Monkfish and Megrim.
The squid fishery around Rockall is known to be sporadic and varies from year to year. This is consistent with squid's short life-span and erratic recruitment dynamics.
Approximately 25 Irish vessels have fished in the waters around Rockall during the spring and summer months in more recent years.
Under the EU/UK Trade and Co-operation Agreement, EU vessels must be licensed by the UK authorities. Since 1 January 2021, the licences issued by the UK to EU vessels, where granted, expressly preclude access to the 12 nautical mile zone around Rockall.
I am committed to finding a way forward on this issue that will support the important commercial fisheries around Rockall. I will continue to work closely with the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin T.D., over the coming period to address issues involved. To this end, Irish officials are in active ongoing contact with their Scottish counterparts on possible ways forward.
Harbours and Piers
Questions (130)
Éamon Ó Cuív
Question:130. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the progress made to date on the development of a deep-water pier in Ros a’Mhíl; if his Department has sought an extension to the planning permission there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18203/23]
View answerWritten answers
I am happy to inform the Deputy that the works are progressing well on the Deep Water Quay at Ros an Mhíl Fishery Harbour Centre This project alone will mean an investment of €30 million into Ros an Mhíl Fishery Harbour Centre. This project is part of an allocation of €17.36 million capital investment for Ros an Mhíl Fishery Harbour Centre from the 2023 Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme and will continue into 2024.
Both the Deputy and I were in Ros an Mhil Fishery Harbour Centre in February and we were able to see the progress achieved at that point by the Contractor who had commenced on site at the end of January. Presently, the works are ongoing with the delivery of infill into the land reclamation area. The works will involve the drilling and blasting of approximately 30,000m3 of rock with dredging and recovery into the reclamation area behind the new quay wall.
Planning advice received by my Department is that the current planning permission runs to 11th of July 2023. An extension of planning can be approved if ‘substantial works’ have been or will be delivered by the end of the current permission. As I have previously advised the Deputy, my Department intends to submit an application to seek an extension of the planning permission for the development before the current permission expires.
Forestry Sector
Questions (131)
Holly Cairns
Question:131. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he is taking to increase rates of afforestation. [18347/23]
View answerWritten answers
Increasing the area under forestry in the country remains a key priority for me, Minister of State Pippa Hackett who has responsibility for the sector and the Department. I am acutely aware of the afforestation target of 8,000 hectares per year set out in the Climate Action Plan and the fact that afforestation rates have been declining in recent years.
In order to realise our ambitions in terms of afforestation, considerable work has been undertaken to date in developing a vision for a new future for forestry in Ireland. Ireland now has for the first time, a Shared National Vision. This Shared National Vision for Trees, Woods and Forests in Ireland until 2050, was informed by a series of extensive engagements and consultation. The Vision has informed a new draft Forestry Strategy for Ireland which was developed by a Project Woodland Working Group.
In parallel, a draft Forest Strategy Implementation Plan has also been developed to facilitate the initial steps in the implementation of the Forest Strategy and the Plan includes a draft Forestry Programme for the period 2023 to 2027. The Deputy will be aware that funding of €1.3 billion has now been secured for this next Forestry Programme, subject to State Aid approval.
In order to address the lacuna between the two Forestry Programmes, we introduced an Interim Afforestation Scheme to allow for existing licence holders to plant trees at the new, significantly higher grant and premium payment rates proposed to be paid under the new Programme.
To date in 2023, a total of 1,533 hectares of afforestation have been approved for planting under the interim Afforestation scheme.
We have also been working intensively with the European Commission to secure State Aid approval for the new Programme. I am pleased to say that we have commenced our formal submission for State Aid approval and I expect that it will be fully lodged by the end of this week.
This clears the way for the Commission to formally assess our application and to make a determination on our request for State Aid approval. Once 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.
This will support the biggest and best-funded Forestry Programme to date in Ireland. This funding provides unprecedented incentives to encourage the planting of trees that can provide a valuable addition to farm income and also to help meet our national climate and biodiversity objectives.
I also propose to launch a Native Tree Area Scheme following the completion of a Strategic Environmental Assessment and Appropriate Assessment, subject to the findings of both assessments. I hope that the proposed Scheme will contribute to the stated policy goal of incentivising small-scale tree planting and of re-engaging farmers with afforestation.
It is my intention to introduce and promote a Programme which will deliver for society, for landowners and for the forestry sector in Ireland. Its objective will be to expand the national forest estate on both private and public land.
I hope to incentivise farmers, in particular, to re-engage with forestry and we hope to offer increases in grants and premiums to enable this land-use change.
A comprehensive and well-subscribed forestry programme has the potential to deliver lasting benefits for climate change, biodiversity, wood production, economic development and quality of life.
Agriculture Schemes
Questions (132)
Michael McNamara
Question:132. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will clarify whether a reduction in the genomic rating of individual bovines in a herd during the course of the new Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP) will impact on the herd owner’s eligibility or whether the animal’s rating at the commencement of the scheme or, in the case of livestock bought in, the rating at the time of purchase, will be maintained throughout for the purpose of eligibility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18551/23]
View answerWritten answers
The objective of the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP) is to provide support to beef farmers to improve the environmental sustainability of the national beef herd. The programme aims to build on the gains delivered in recent years through the Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP) and the Beef Environmental Efficiency Programme (BEEP) by improving the genetic merit of the Irish suckler herd.
The scheme which has a budget of €256 million over the course of the CSP 2023 - 2027 opened for applications on 20 March 2023 and will close on 22 May 2023. There will however continue to be a facility for a farmer and/or their FAS approved Advisor to submit applications albeit with a late penalty up until the 16 June 2023.
While the full detail of the scheme is set down in the Terms and Conditions of the scheme, there are a number of important eligibility criteria which participants must meet and continue to meet should they be approved into the scheme.
1. They must continue to submit a Basic Income Support Scheme application in each and every year of the five-year SCEP contract.
2. They must be a member of the Bord Bia Sustainable Beef and Lamb Assurance Scheme (SBLAS) by 16th October 2023 and continue to be a member throughout the SCEP contract.
3. They must calve down at least 50% of their "yearly reference number" annually.
4. They must attend the SCEP training course by 15th November 2024.
Failure to meet any one of these four criteria at any point during the SCEP contract will result in removal from the scheme and recoupment of all monies paid out under the scheme to the participant concerned.
In addition to the eligibility criteria set out above, there are five actions in the scheme as set out below.
Action 1 – Eligible Bull / Eligible AI
Action 2 – Female Replacement Strategy
Action 3 – Genotyping
Action 4 - Weighing and Submission of Weights to ICBF
Action 5 - Calving Details and Surveys
Failure to meet some or all of these actions will lead to penalties as set out in the scheme Terms and Conditions.
In terms of Action 1 and Action 2, the date of the first evaluation while the animal was in the herd will stand even if the animal falls in star ratings in subsequent evaluations. For example if a farmer either breeds a five-star bull or buys in a five-star bull but on a subsequent evaluation, the animal has fallen to say a three-star, this animal will still be considered a five-star for as long as the animal is maintained in that herd. If however it was sold to another farmer, that farmer would be buying the bull as a three-star. The same applies to dams or heifers.
EU Directives
Questions (133)
James O'Connor
Question:133. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide an update in relation to Nitrates Derogation and discussions around proposed changes to current levels in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18133/23]
View answerWritten answers
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is the lead authority responsible for Ireland's Nitrates Action Programme (NAP) and the associated Regulations. My Department works closely with them in this regard.
Last year Ireland secure a Nitrates Derogation covering the years 2022 - 2025. However as part of the European Commission’s Implementing Decision granting Ireland that Derogation, additional conditionality was included by the Commission. This Conditionality included the requirement to conduct a two-year review of water quality, this year.
This review must compare water quality data for 2021 and 2022. Where this data shows that there are polluted waters, or waters at risk of pollution that are not showing signs of improvement, or where worsening trends have occurred over this period, the maximum stocking rate limit for derogation farms must be reduced from 250kg to 220kg livestock manure nitrogen per hectare from 2024 onwards. The Environment Protection Agency is currently working to provide the water quality data that will be used in this review.
As part of the current NAP the scope of some existing measures was broadened, other measures were expanded and a number of new measures were introduced to drive improvements in water quality.
In addition to working on the interim review of the NAP which is due to take place this year, I have asked my officials to engage further with the European Commission with the objective of seeking flexibility from them on the two-year water quality review with a view to giving existing measures more time to demonstrate their impact. However, there is no guarantee that there will be a change to the Commission's Implementing Decision as it stands.
I will do all in my power to secure the Nitrates Derogation into the future as it plays an important role in supporting productive family farming in Ireland.
Agriculture Schemes
Questions (134)
James O'Connor
Question:134. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has considered to include multiple robotic milking units within the TAMS grants as the current scheme only allows for one robotic milking unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18132/23]
View answerWritten answers
Through TAMS 3, I believe we have delivered a hugely exciting scheme that will deliver for farmers, for the entire agrifood sector and the wider rural economy over the next number of years. I have secured a budget of €370m for TAMS between 2023 and 2027 with a strong focus on supporting this as well as subsequent generations of farmers.
There are, as the Deputy will be aware, exciting new developments for dairy farmers including higher grant aids of solar panels as well as a range of labour saving items. There are approximately 100 new investment items available to farm families compared to TAMS II. There are now in the region of 300 investment items in TAMS 3.
On the dairy sector, the list of potential investments is larger than ever before. In addition to the investments being carried over from TAMS II there is a wide range of additional investments being introduced for farmers, including farm roadways, bovine fencing, health and fertility monitoring systems, automatic drafting systems, public road underpasses and milk recording systems.
When a farmer is planning to update their dairy system, investment in the milking machine is only a portion of the required investment. It is important that dairy farmers also invest in animal housing, slurry storage, fodder storage and making their holding more accessible. To this end, the TAMS schemes are designed to encourage farmers to invest in these animal welfare and environmentally beneficial investments before investing in additional milking equipment. It is for this reason that there are limits on robotic milkers where farmers have previously benefited from this under the TAMS scheme before.
Dairy farmers are also well catered for with additional separate investment ceilings for LESS at €40,000 and solar at €90,000 which are particular Government priorities to address ammonia emissions and renewable energy generation respectively. Additionally, it is important to recognise that young farmers also benefit from grant support at 60% rather than the standard 40%.
In summary, I am anxious to ensure that TAMS 3 is better aligned with Government priorities of delivering environmental public good outputs and is consistent with other policies that are trying to improve the sustainability of our dairy herd such as changes in Nitrates regulations. I am satisfied that this has been achieved in the new scheme design.
Fishing Industry
Questions (135)
Holly Cairns
Question:135. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he has taken in response to the call in the European Parliament resolution of 7 June 2022 on the implementation of Article 17 of the Common Fisheries Policy Regulation (2021/2168(INI)) for ‘Member States to ensure a level playing field and equal opportunities for all fishers to allow for fair access to marine resources’; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18345/23]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy may be aware, our long-standing policy in Ireland is that fishing quotas are a public resource and are managed to ensure that property rights are not granted to individual operators. When a quota allocation is not fished by an individual operator, it is returned to the State for re-distribution to the fleet. This is important to ensure that quotas are not concentrated into the hands of large fishing companies whose owners have the financial means to buy up such rights.
This approach helps to support a fishing fleet based around the Irish coastline. This means that the Irish fishing fleet is made up of various sizes and types of fishing vessels who have retained a strong economic link with our coastal communities and have provided vital employment in these communities, where there are limited alternative economic activities. Any movement towards privatisation of fishing rights would seriously risk fishing vessels losing an economic link with Ireland’s coastal communities and I work closely with the fishing industry to ensure this does not happen.
We manage our whitefish quotas generally on a monthly basis with catch limits being set for each month for each stock. Every month the Quota Management Advisory Committee meets to consult on the management of quotas within National Policy. This meeting involves fishing industry representatives from the catching sectors and processing sectors, my Department, and the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority. The purpose of these meetings is to make recommendations to me for particular stocks and, I follow these recommendations for regimes for particular stocks, subject to the proper management and rational exploitation of our fisheries.
The Committee examines the operation of each fishery, uptake patterns and available quota for the different groups of fishing vessels, including inshore fishing vessels. Discussions on allocations take into account the divergent situation of the fleet and the market, and any weather conditions particularly in respect of the smaller vessels. The Committee also has the possibility of recommending additional catch limits to incentivise the introduction of environmentally friendly fishing gear in particular fisheries or for particular types of vessels.
All vessels under 55 feet in length receive the same catch limit which includes small scale coastal fishers licensed to fish for whitefish. Pelagic stocks of mackerel and herring also have allocations made available, in accordance with Ministerial National policy, supporting smaller vessels. I recently launched a public consultation on a review of the 2012 Herring Management Policy, in relation to the quantity of herring set aside from the southern North-West herring stock for smaller/inshore fishing vessels.
Forestry Sector
Questions (136)
Michael Lowry
Question:136. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has plans to provide immediate financial assistance to the private forestry sector given the failure of his Department to ensure the forestry programme was introduced in January 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18536/23]
View answerWritten answers
I am acutely aware of the cashflow difficulties being experienced by some registered foresters.
My Department has been working with the industry to explore solutions to these temporary problems and I met with the pillar banks where support for the forestry sector was emphasised. The Department is focused on maximising the volume of work available while ensuring prompt payment for work completed. To this end we have reviewed all options available and have introduced a suite of measures to assist in this regard.
• All applications for afforestation licences under the previous Programme 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 for the new Programme is granted. These sites would then be immediately available to commence.
• I launched the Interim DeMinimis 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. To date a total of 248 applications have been approved under the interim Afforestation scheme (via general de minimis) representing 1,533 hectares. We have received completion notices for 105 of these contracts representing 592 hectares. We have been notified that a further 198 applications or 553 hectares have commenced work. The portal to enable the submission of applications for payment opened on Wednesday 29th March. Applications for payment for these contracts have been submitted at a steady rate since the portal opened and will now be subject to immediate processing. .
• I also launched an interim scheme for the reconstitution of ash dieback. This scheme has attractive additional features which will enable work to commence on those sites with current valid approvals.
• To 31st March 2023 there has been a total spend of €42,728,570. Of this €4,392,592 has been paid in grants compared to €4,534,476 in 2022 a difference of €141,884. This expenditure represents a significant increase in spend for support schemes and the planting of 195 hectares. However, this planting figure does not include any expenditure under the Interim de minimis schemes. We estimate that approximately €4 million of works are underway.
My Department has been involved in intensive negotiations with the EU Commission to secure state aid approval for the new Forestry Programme and a formal application is now being made and will be submitted in full by the end of this week. This will allow the EU Commission to make a formal decision on the new Programme and will clear the way for the acceptance of applications once approval is received. The opening of the Programme is also subject to the completion of the Strategic Environmental Assessment which is nearing completion.
Along with Minister of State Pippa Hackett, who has responsibility for the sector, we are committed to building a strong future for everyone in the industry.
EU Directives
Questions (137)
Michael Lowry
Question:137. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when he will revisit the Nitrates Derogation Condition in accordance with the agreement reached with the European Commission to hold an interim review of the Nitrates Action Programme in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18534/23]
View answerWritten answers
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH) is the lead authority for the Nitrates Regulations and the associated interim review of the 5th Nitrates Action Programme (NAP). My Department works very closely with DHLGH in this regard.
The interim review of the 2022-2025 NAP will take place in the coming months. The purpose of that review is to undertake an assessment of the effectiveness of the current Nitrates Action Programme measures and to introduce any new measures that may be needed to reflect recent water quality data, significant changes to the agricultural sector and/or any other data considered relevant.
In light of negative trends in Irish water quality during the run-up to Ireland’s application for the current Nitrates Derogation, additional conditionality was included as part of the Commission’s decision to grant the derogation. This Conditionality included the requirement to conduct a two-year review of water quality, this year. This review must compare water quality data for 2021 and 2022. Where this data shows that there are polluted waters or waters at risk of pollution that are not showing signs of improvement, or where worsening trends have occurred over this period, the maximum stocking rate limit for derogation farms must be reduced from 250kg to 220kg livestock manure nitrogen per hectare from 2024 onwards. The Environment Protection Agency is currently working to provide the water quality data that will be used in this review.
As part of the current NAP the scope of some existing measures was broadened, other measures were expanded and a number of new measures were introduced to drive improvements in water quality.
In addition to working on the interim review, I have asked my officials to engage further with the European Commission with the objective of seeking flexibility from them on the two-year water quality review with a view to giving existing measures more time to demonstrate their impact.
However, there is no guarantee that there will be a change to the Commission's Implementing Decision as it stands.
I will do all in my power to protect and secure the Nitrates Derogation in the long term.
Agriculture Schemes
Questions (138)
Rose Conway-Walsh
Question:138. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to clarify scoring under the scheme for farmers with commonage land where there is active turf cutting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18495/23]
View answerWritten answers
I am assuming that the Deputy is referring to the Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme, (ACRES). There was significant interest in ACRES and I was pleased to announce last month that all valid applications of the 46,230 received in Tranche 1 would be accepted into the Scheme.
Participants in ACRES commit to undertake, under their ACRES contract, certain actions for a period of five years.
Applicants with Commonage received priority entry into ACRES General under Tier 1 to incentivise farmers to help ensure that habitats on such lands are maintained or restored to good condition through appropriate management practices.
There is a set payment per hectare for commonages of 10 hectares or less with a requirement for the submission for a Commonage Farm Plan prepared by certain advisors.
As there is a results-based payment associated with commonages of greater than 10 hectares, the application includes a commitment to have the commonage scored by an approved commonage assessor by a certain deadline.
A payment will then be paid to that shareholder based on the score awarded. This assessment can be carried out without the consent or agreement of all shareholders where at least one shareholder is an ACRES participant.
This results-based score will assess all activities taking place on the commonage. Active turf cutting is regarded as a damaging activity and will have an impact on the score awarded. My Department is working closely with the ACRES Co-Operation teams to develop a protocol to mitigate against the impact of active turf cutting on the score awarded. These activities will therefore affect the ACRES payment.
ACRES aims to incentivise shareholders to come together in commonage management groups to address factors that may be affecting the results-based score on the commonage.
ACRES participants in the ACRES Co-operation areas will also be able to avail of funding in respect of non-productive investments and landscape action supports designed to improve habitat restoration. These capital investments provide a mechanism for score improvement with consequent positive impacts on the level of payment in subsequent years.
Harbours and Piers
Questions (139)
Christopher O'Sullivan
Question:139. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if consideration will be given to Cork County Councils request for funding to carry out the necessary work to reconstruct Keelbeg Pier in Union Hall, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18585/23]
View answerWritten answers
No doubt the Deputy is aware of the Brexit Adjustment: Local Authority Marine Infrastructure Scheme 2022-2023. The BALAMI Scheme gives effect to one of the recommendations of the Seafood Sector Taskforce which I established to identify how to address the impacts of Brexit on the seafood sector. This scheme is proposed to be funded in the main from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve.
The Scheme assists the development of the marine economy in coastal communities by aiming to give immediate construction stimulus to those coastal communities affected by Brexit. Each of the projects will be delivered by the local authority which owns and maintains the relevant marine infrastructure. The focus of the scheme is on supporting actual capital works and it is a matter for each local authority to progress any preparatory studies, permitting and design works.
Cork County Council has secured a scheme contribution of €6.032m for the funding of 20 projects. In total the Scheme has approved 164 project for funding of up to €55.3m. Cork County Council had applied for funding for Keelbeg Pier under the Scheme but the proposed project did not meet the Scheme criteria and so was ineligible.
Prior to the BALAMI Scheme, my Department provided funding to assist in carrying out small scale projects for the development and repair of local authority owned piers, harbours and slipways under the annual Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme. Over 2020 and 2021, Cork County Council received funding of €183,000 for various safety improvement works at Keelbeg Pier. The Brexit Adjustment Reserve funding to support the BALAMI Scheme is unprecedented. Any future supports that may be made available to support local authority capital investment in piers and harbours will have to consider the available Exchequer funding and overall national priorities.
Responsibility for the development and maintenance of local authority owned piers, harbours and slipways rests with each local authority in the first instance. I am also mindful that the primary governance role for local authorities rests with the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage and any wider funding issues for local authorities should be addressed to that Minister.
Agriculture Supports
Questions (140)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Question:140. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will consider putting specific supports in place for the sheep sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18559/23]
View answerWritten answers
I regard a viable sheep sector 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 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
- grant aid for multispecies 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 down 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.
Agriculture Industry
Questions (141)
Niamh Smyth
Question:141. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on the work of the Women-Only Knowledge Transfer Group. [18489/23]
View answerWritten answers
I recently updated the Deputy on the position of women in farming and the ongoing work in this area. This work consists of the innovative proposals in the new CAP Strategic Plan, including the promotion of women-only Knowledge Transfer (KT) Groups; and initiatives under Food Vision 2030, including the National Dialogue on Women in Agriculture, which I hosted on the 1st of February this year.
The Knowledge Transfer Programme under the 2023-2027 CAP Strategic Plan builds on the experience of the discussion group model in the previous KT Programme. The objective of the Programme is to provide support for high quality and targeted advice to farmers, delivered by professional advisers with the appropriate experience and expertise (KT Facilitators). The Programme will also allow for shared learning between the farmers in the groups. It aims to increase farmers understanding of topics such as biodiversity, water quality, air quality, climate change, soil health, animal health & welfare, farm management, digital and smart technologies, financial management and succession planning.
The new Programme is a three-year Programme, due to commence in January 2024, with the Expression of Interest online system for advisors to be a KT Facilitator expected to open for applications in June 2023. The KT Facilitators will then submit their groups for approval. The composition of KT Groups will be determined in accordance with identified local needs, including the option to have women-only participation.
I am proud to be the first Minister to have introduced a range of supports for women farmers through the new CAP and I will continue to support our women farmers.