Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Every country has the same challenge that we do. In regard to our emissions targets and the climate action plan, I worked very hard on behalf of the sector to ensure that it and its valuable socio-economic role, but also the science around agriculture, are very much respected in terms of setting a target which, while being as ambitious as possible, is also achievable. Overall, between now and 2030, while the economy is going to have to deliver, and our commitment as a Government is to drive on and deliver, a 51% economy-wide reduction in emissions by 2030, the agricultural target will be between 22% and 30%. That is significantly less than what other sectors will have to do but it is very ambitious and will be a real challenge for the sector. I believe the sector can deliver it and I am determined to work with the sector to support it in delivering that.

By doing that and by delivering on our emissions reduction, we will add value to the food we are producing because we can continue to ensure we are the number one choice on plates throughout the world. Consumers want to know not just that their food is nutritious and safe, but also how it is produced and that it is done as sustainably as possible, in sync with the environment around it and with the lowest emissions possible. That is how we ensure that its value is maximised and that farm profits are also maximised in the years ahead.

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