I propose to take Questions Nos. 718, 741 and 743 together.
Membership of the Bord Bia Sustainable Beef and Lamb Quality Assurance Scheme (SBLAS) is an eligibility condition of the proposed Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP) as part of Ireland's draft CAP strategic plan. The full details of the draft CAP strategic plan are available on the Department's website.
A core metric underpinning this environmental schemes is the measurement and tracking of the carbon footprint for each participant farm. The sustainability survey in the SBLAS audit provides a carbon footprint using an established model.
My view is that it is imperative that the scheme includes strong and measurable environmental actions which will further drive the environmental efficiency of suckler beef farming, as well as contributing to the sector's efficiency and competitiveness and supporting farm incomes.
The Deputy will be aware that the costs associated with SBLAS audits are funded directly by my Department rather than by the participating beef and sheep farmers.