Maria McCormack (Sinn Fein)

I move amendment No. 1:

After the word “notes:” to insert the following paragraph: “- the increase of incidents of Bovine TB which are at record levels;”

I thank the Fine Gael Senators for bringing forward this motion on agriculture. I am a farmer's daughter so I am delighted to have a chance to speak on this debate on agriculture. As the Minister correctly said, it affects everyone in the country, not just the rural community. We all depend on farmers.

I also acknowledge that the amendments tabled by Sinn Féin have been accepted, which is a positive outcome. I am happy that we can work together in the interests of farmers in rural communities. Our two amendments are clear. The first is to note that the incidents of bovine TB are at record levels and to ensure the bovine TB action plan is implemented in a way that takes farmers' concerns seriously, that it is a fully funded plan to provide proper funding so that valuations to reactor cattle reflect true market value. The second is to put on record opposition to the Mercosur trade deal which threatens Irish family farms.

Right now the TB situation is worsening. The reality on the ground for family farms is stark. Bovine TB is spiralling out of control.Last year, over 41,000 cattle were lost. Already this year, we have seen more than 43,000 reactors. For many families, that means years of careful breeding wiped out in a matter of weeks. I spoke recently to a farmer in Laois who told me he had been losing bloodlines that had been on the family farm for generations. That is hard enough, but to top it off he was left with valuations that fell far short of the true value of his animals, sometimes losing €1,000 or more on a single animal. Farmers are committed to eradicating TB. They want to work with the action plan but cannot accept footing the bill themselves or being left out of pocket for losses that are not of their making. Fairness, proper compensation and respect are the least they deserve. Farmers are being short-changed and driven into debt, which is having a detrimental effect on their mental health. It is so important we talk about that issue. That is why I am glad that our amendments will be a part of this motion. They strengthen and improve it and send a clear message that this House is standing up family farmers.

I know my colleague will speak further about the Mercosur deal but just let me say that I feel it is not a good deal for Irish farmers. It would force our farmers to compete on an uneven playing field. Irish farmers must meet the highest standards of animal welfare, traceability and environmental protection while other farmers do not. That is deeply unfair and must be opposed. I welcome the comments from the other Senators that if it were a fair playing field and everyone had to apply the same standards, things may be different for us. We must stand up for the Irish farmers. I appreciate the work done by the Fine Gael Senators who tabled this motion. I welcome the willingness to work together as we continue to support family farmers, demand fairness and ensure that Irish agriculture has the support it needs thrive.