Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

In relation to the discussion that we had this morning, one of the issues that is frequently raised with us is that in order for us to meet our climate actions, what we need is policy coherence across all levels and elements of Government and the climate action plan is an attempt to do that. Often we do not see that, particularly when it comes to agriculture. Indeed, what the Minister will probably see when he leaves the meeting is that the first engagement that the Taoiseach had when he went to COP was to visit a dairy farm which is getting quite a bit of attention.

One of the actions in the climate action plan was to review and develop a plan for a voluntary reduction in the dairy sector. The plan was to be published in this quarter. When the Minister, Deputy McConalogue, was before the committee earlier, it was clear that not only will the plan not be published in this quarter but my sense from talking to him was that there had not been a considerable amount work done in that regard, nor will there be. He said the plan is still under consideration. The Minister and I are probably on the same page when it comes to reducing emissions in the dairy sector. It is about looking at the viability of farms and supporting farmers to move out of areas, such as dairy, that are environmentally or emissions intensive. If that target for the agricultural sector is going to be removed or not satisfied, what impact will it have on the climate action plan? Does the Minister have any comments on that issue? It is certainly something that should be examined. If that work is not being done, it is of concern.