Mr. Bill Callanan:

Absolutely, in parts. By way of example, it seems to be a lot of land, but under the current GLAS, there is approximately 250,000 ha of low input permanent pasture, LIPP. That land is subject to a relatively low application of manures and a low level of intensity. The traditional hay meadow option in the scheme similarly accounts for about 120,000 ha or 130,000 ha. It is that same type of management. An added element here concerns how to manage the water table to secure the carbon.

I do not see continued use as being impossible. If the prescription is right, it would be a voluntary scheme. If the policy options are suitable for farms, if they are understandable and if farmers will be rewarded to offset the reduced production that will occur, then I cannot see why there would be a reluctance to participate. It is a new system, it will take time and we will have to work in respect of advisory services to ensure people can understand what this is about. I would be particularly cautious regarding a suggestion that this is about rewilding or anything like that.