Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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49. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if her Department has assessed the opportunities for rural development of a switch to a more climate resilient agriculture. [33396/20]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, policy responsibility for the Agriculture sector is a matter for the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

However, both primary production and the food processing sector play a vital role in supporting rural economies and rural communities. The Agri-food sector is Ireland’s most important indigenous exporting industry, playing a vital role in the economy, especially in rural and coastal areas.

Reducing emissions is a critical element in addressing the global challenge of climate change, but the process of building resilience in the Agriculture sector and adapting to the changes we expect to see in our climate are equally important. I believe there are opportunities for rural businesses and communities in this process.

The Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine is continuing to focus on the sustainable development of the Agriculture sector, while ensuring the maintenance of viable farm incomes. The role of research and innovation is also becoming more critical to the future of the sector. I understand that the Department of Agriculture is continuing to invest heavily in this area and is committed to supporting diversification of activity at farm level and in the wider rural economy.

All of this can help to realise new opportunities for the development of rural areas in the years to come, including in emerging sectors such as the Bioeconomy.