Tánaiste and Minister for Rural Affairs, Micheál Martin has said that he will support farmers and that “our food production system and food security are essential”.
The Tánaiste was speaking at a Dáil sitting in recent days about how it is “important” for food production that the land is protected and that biodiversity is “vital”.
In addition, the Tánaiste said:
“Many farmers understand this, and the need to ensure for the long-term food production system that will not undermine biodiversity and prepares us to enable us to adapt to climate change.”
Martin went on to discuss the Nature Restoration Law and how its impact “will not be immediate” but the law “could be positive” in making sure there is sustainable food for the long-term.
He also stated that he would support farmers and increase the funding of the schemes, such as Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) and schemes relating to biodiversity.
Deputy Danny Healy-Rae had invited the response from the Tanáiste initially stating:
“In one foul swoop, all their [farmers’] work will be nullified and wiped out. This is all because of the government’s lust and quest for power.”
Healy-Rae claimed that 200,000 cows will have to be culled due to the 25% reduction in emissions target by 2030, meanwhile he said China is “boasting” that they will increase their herd by one million this year alone.
Deputy Healy-Rae questioned “why the same focus is not being placed on local authorities and Irish Water”.
He also said that 20% of land is to be rewetted, claiming this could mean that homes become flooded.
The deputy outlined how this would affect smaller farmers that would benefit from the Arterial Drainage Act 1945 and grant-aided schemes.
The deputy highlighted that the reduction in nitrates means that many farmers will have to cut production or cull cows because they “cannot afford” to rent/buy additional land, as it is “too expensive” and that smaller farms “will not be viable”.
Deputy Healy-Rae re-emphasised his claim about Chinese farmers “doing what they want” and why do Irish farmers follow a guideline when “we are all under the one sky”.
He emphasised to the Tánaiste that agriculture is a struggle at present, without the added challenge of farmers having to cut back on production.