Agriculture Committee to discuss impact of Climate Change on agriculture sector

Representatives from Meat Industry Ireland, Irish Grain Growers, and the Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association will appear before the Committee.

Committee Chairman, Pat Deering TD said, “Agriculture is highly exposed to the negative effects of climate change. The impact of resource stress on food production is one of the key issues facing global food production, as are concerns around greenhouse gas emissions, carbon sequestration and carbon levels in soils. Equally, the impact farming itself has on climate change – through the production of methane and nitrous oxide – cannot be ignored. Tomorrow we will discuss initiatives in the sector to address climate change and issues arising under the Common Agricultural Policy, such as greening. Climate-related losses in crop and livestock productivity continues to be an ongoing challenge for farmers and the Committee will be keen to discuss how farming can adapt to the changed climate globally and locally, while promoting low emissions on Irish farms.”

The meeting will start at 3.30pm in Committee Room 1, Leinster House.

Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the move, through the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.