Taoiseach Simon Harris visited the Agriland tent at the National Ploughing Championships and announced that he fully recognises the needs of Irish agriculture.
Taoiseach Harris went on to indicate that Budget 2025 will contain specific measures that reflect the current needs of the farming and food sectors.
So, could we be looking at a scenario within which Irish farmers reap the real harvest of 2024 on October 1? Let’s hope so.
An equally encouraging aspect of the Taoiseach’s Agriland interview, was his personalisation of the need to deliver for agriculture.
In other words, he will take direct responsibility for many of the policy decisions coming down the track.
Taoiseach Harris
Taoiseach Harris repeatedly referenced his commitment to visit as many agricultural shows as possible over recent months, and the fact that he was in listening mode while attending these events.
But the most significant insight expressed by the Taoiseach while at Ploughing 2024, centred on his full acceptance of the principle that production agriculture must be allowed to grow. And making this happen will require investment at all levels.
It’s unusual for a politician to be so forthcoming and forthright of view where fundamental matters of detail are concerned.
What’s more, Taoiseach Harris has very little wiggle room in terms of a time line for policy delivery. Budget 2025 is just one week away.
The reality, of course, makes grim reading for Irish agriculture in the here and now. For the most part, farm incomes have taken a real battering over the past two years.
And this is particularly so, where tillage is concerned.
The industry needs a real boost – a fillip that sets it on a path of true sustainability for the future.
Let’s hope that Budget 2025 will be the starting point of this process.
Armed with its ‘apple billions’ the Irish government can set in train a series of measures that will deliver real change across the Irish economy and the society as a whole.
But not everything will be within its gift. Securing the European Union (EU) current nitrates derogation is one of these matters.
Retaining it will be of real consequence for farming as a whole, particularly the dairy sector.
And all of this comes down to one, fundamental question: do promises of real investment in water quality cut the mustard with Brussels at this stage? Or is it a case of trying to shut the stable door after the horse has bolted?
All will be revealed in the not too distant future.