Mr. Bill Callanan:

From our perspective, we are not using a rod in terms of our approach. We are trying, through investment in knowledge transfer and the beef data and genomics programme, BDGP, etc., to encourage the practices which are delivering the efficiencies demanded of the sector. I would not classify our approach as a rod, rather it is an encouragement.

I shall leave it to my colleague, Dr. Hendrick, to confirm the number of trees that must be planted to offset the greenhouse gas emissions produced by a single cow. I do not have the data.

In terms of the research agenda and the industries maintained, there is a high degree of focus on ensuring that they are correct, appropriate and up to date. Let us be clear, the science will evolve as we gain more information. The inventory is maintained by the EPA, which uses data provided by various agencies, etc.

On the reductions in sheep numbers, the national dairy-beef herd and the number of ruminant animals generally, we have all of the valid data and it can be corroborated. For example, in terms of the annual usage of fertiliser, we keep a very detailed record of fertiliser sales that naturally feeds into the process of inventories. There is high degree of accuracy in the data.

The amount of money available for solar anaerobic digestion, etc. is an issue for Government. From the point of view of civil servants, we only deal with matters when the money has been provided and, therefore, the matter should be discussed at another venue.

On Deputy Corcoran Kennedy's question about more efficient manure applications, the Department and, in particular, Teagasc are investing in this area. First, a trailing shoe mechanism used in the application of manures has been identified as increasing efficiency by 10%. There is a 10% efficiency to be gained from moving slurry from mid-year application to spring application and a further 10% can be gained by using trailing shoes on slurry tanks. So the increase in efficiency is approximately 20%.

There has been a phenomenal take-up in respect of the TAMS investment scheme for the technology. Over 1,000 applications have been received to date and 870 of these have been approved. This shows that farmers are voting with their feet, particularly those who employ intensive methods, in terms of using the technology. The scheme is supported through GLAS because a payment is given to people who use the technology.

On carbon capture, realistically we consider carbon sequestration. In order words, an opportunity to take more in through afforestation, as mentioned by Dr. Hendrick, and the proper and appropriate use of peatlands, dry mineral soils, etc. One could say that we maximise the efficient use of those with a view to increasing and enhancing. Let us be clear about the difficulty. It is the incremental increase that is counted and not just the sequester. It is true to say the agriculture sector is unique as it produces emissions and offers opportunities for sequestration.

I have dealt with issue of seaweed. From a scientific point of view, I am hopeful that there will be opportunities for interventions in the sector. However, we must be careful to ensure that the integrity and quality of our food is not compromised.