Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

These measures will be optional. It is my firm believe the best results come from bringing people with you and not by imposing obligations on them. That approach is reflected in the Food Vision dairy and beef reports. These reports were prepared through a process of collaboration and co-operation and represent a broad consensus with some reservations on the key actions required. Contrary to the narrative that is being pushed from one side of this House for a long time, Government does not want to take cows off farmers or force a cull of the national herd. We brought together all stakeholders in the dairy sector. The group came up with a report that was published in full last autumn and was put on our website. It set out a number of options, one of which was a voluntary retirement exit scheme for those farmers who want to avail of it. However, there is no scheme there and no decision has been taken to proceed with such a scheme because there is a lot of work still to be done, and a lot of engagement with stakeholders still to take place, before a proposal is even on the table. Unlike the narrative being delivered by some here today that implies that farmers will be forced to take actions, that is not the case.

This sector is one of which we are rightly proud. We do not farm the same way we did five, ten, or 15 years ago. Change is constant though that does not mean it is easy. One thing I believe is certain is that agriculture will continue to be a major driver of activity in rural communities. Food Vision looks to protect and build on Ireland's global reputation as a trusted supplier of sustainable food to consumers at home and abroad built on steady value growth. In 2022, a record €18.8 billion in exports of Irish agrifood products went to more than 180 markets worldwide. As Minister of State with responsibility for new market development, I continue to work closely with all stakeholders in gaining, maintaining, restoring and enhancing access for Irish agrifood products to a wide range of target markets. Sustainability is crucial to those efforts. We are in front right now. We are in the lead right now but that does not mean we can fold our arms and say we are doing fine, are happy with that and will do no more. That will not be in the interests of the sector long term. It is important we acknowledge and continue to support the significant work that has already been undertaken by all those in the sector, to work towards our emission-reduction targets rather than push simplistic narratives at either extreme.

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