Farmers are making significant progress in reducing emissions and "deserve practical support rather than being continually blamed for the country's climate challenges", according to Senator Sarah O’Reilly.

The Áontu senator for Cavan-Monaghan said: "Farmers are often scapegoated as the primary cause of emissions, but the EPA's own figures show agriculture is one of the sectors making real progress."

A report last month from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) showed that total emissions from the agriculture sector could fall by up to 19%.

This could be achieved through measures such as reduced fertiliser use and the adoption of lower-emission technologies, the report said.

These projections are based on the Irish government's planned climate policies and measures up to 2030.

According to Senator O'Reilly, "Farmers are making major changes on their farms and that effort should be recognised."

She called on the government to "match farmers' efforts with supports that reduce both emissions and costs".

"Instead of simply talking about climate targets and potential fines, the government should be asking what practical steps it can take to help farmers reduce emissions," the senator said.

HVO opportunities

Senator O'Reilly also urged the government to lower the VAT rate on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).

"HVO can reduce emissions significantly, but it currently costs between 15 and 25 cent per litre more than conventional diesel,"

"For many farmers that means paying thousands of euros extra each year simply for trying to make a greener choice."

The senator noted that farmers are paying 13.5% VAT on green diesel but 23% on HVO.

She said: "Removing VAT would make that transition much more affordable.

"Farmers are doing their part. They are reducing emissions, investing in new technologies and adapting to changing requirements."

"The government now needs to do its part by providing positive incentives that reward environmental progress rather than continually placing additional costs and burdens on family farms."

Senator O'Reilly added that she sees such a step being "mutually beneficial" to both agricultural workers and the government.