Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)

I thank Deputy O'Sullivan for raising this point on behalf of Deputy O'Connor. Deputy O'Connor has spoken directly to me on this point previously regarding his concerns in Cork. The programme for Government has committed to introduce planning guidelines for solar farms and to provide certainty in the development of solar energy. Issues regarding planning fall under the remit of the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The rights of farmers and other landowners are, of course, subject to the usual constitutional protections.

As Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, I am committed to driving sustainable agriculture practices that underpin Ireland’s food sector and contribute more broadly to food security through an export market worth over €19 billion. My Department does also offer support for the production of indigenous renewable energy. This is primarily through the solar capital investment scheme, SCIS, under TAMS and the installation of mainly rooftop solar PV technology along with battery storage on Irish farms across the country. As of April 2025, over 3,000 farmers had received approval under the SCIS with 532 farmers having installed panels to date.

It is important to provide farmers with opportunities to ensure they can maximise the income from their holdings, maintain viable holdings and protect our family farm tradition. Hence, my Department provides a wide range of supports for a variety of farming activities and sectors. My Department also has a specific role in ensuring that agricultural lands, as defined under the Common Agricultural Policy, are maintained to a high environmental standard as set out under the cross-compliance framework. Land submitted for payment under the basic income support for sustainability must remain under agricultural management for the duration of the scheme year. My Department also ensures that the required environmental and sustainability practices are implemented on agricultural land in Ireland.

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