Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his question. As required under the provisions in EU Council Directive 2019/904, the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications recently signed into force national regulations prohibiting the use of single-use plastics. This includes films of the type used to cover sown maize. I understand that the industry is developing alternative products for use in the sowing of maize that will comply with the new requirements set down by this EU directive.

In parallel, in terms of support for the sector, the Department recommenced value for cultivation and use, VCU, trials for uncovered maize in 2020 as a means to identify varieties better suited to Irish growing conditions that do not require plastic covering. This work will build on the 2015 uncovered recommended list in which a high-performing variety was identified and is currently available on the Irish market for growers.

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