Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Farmers have made significant progress in reducing emissions by improving their efficiency through measures such as: improved breeding, grassland management and the use of animal waste. They have proven both their awareness and long-term commitment. I have been contacted by numerous farmers from across County Tipperary who have expressed their mounting concern at the demands and expectations currently being placed on their shoulders. The underlying message is that they are willing and prepared to make changes, they know the changes are needed and they accept and agree that they have a crucial role to play. The changes required of farmers must be realistic and achievable and must be fair to keep them on board. It is pointless to set targets that are unattainable and impossible to deliver. Placing such demands on the farming community will only serve to alienate them. Ireland needs a thriving agricultural sector. It has, and always will be, the backbone of our rural economy. When does the Tánaiste expect the Government will be in a position to make a decision on these matters.

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