Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for the question. Last year, Ireland ranked first for food security on The Economistglobal food security index, which ranks countries across indicators of affordability, availability, quality, safety, natural resources and resilience. The Common Agricultural Policy, CAP, is the key mechanism for ensuring food security throughout Europe. Significant implications of the Ukrainian crisis are being seen across all sectors of the economy, including agrifood. The immediate humanitarian crisis is a key focus. Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine and it has to take priority. We also need to take the necessary steps to ensure food security is maintained.

Following recent engagement at EU level, on 23 March the European Commission announced a range of actions to enhance global food security and to support farmers and consumers in the EU in light of rising food prices and input costs. The communication sets out actions in three areas. First, it presents immediate actions to safeguard food security in Ukraine and around the world. Second, it addresses the challenge of stability in the EU's food system, with a range of measures to support our farmers and maintain affordability. Finally, it confirms the EU agenda to make our food system sustainable and resilient in the years to come. It includes an allocation of €15.8 million in exceptional aid for Ireland, which can be topped up by up to 200% by national funding. I am examining ways to mobilise this support, taking account of the detailed requirements and conditionality attached to that exceptional aid provision.

I set up a rapid response team in my Department to monitor and address this challenge. I have also put in place the national fodder and food security committee, bringing together stakeholders from across the sector to address the challenges that will undoubtedly arise this year. It is important we continue to keep food production at a high level. We have to work together to ensure we overcome those challenges, which are not usually there, but are certainly an issue this year. I will work to support farmers in that process over the coming year.

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