Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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695. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of persons awaiting the introduction of a new retirement scheme for farmers; the details of this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45069/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The challenge of generational renewal is widely recognised at national and EU level, with the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) citing it as one of its nine key objectives.

I believe that supporting young farmers and facilitating generational renewal is critical to ensure a bright future for the agri-food sector. Obviously this also concerns older farmers and while there are a number of supports currently available under the CAP specifically for young farmers, these are complemented by a suite of national taxation measures that assist both younger and older farmers.

Regarding any new supports and the development of the new CAP Strategic Plan, this is well underway and a five-week consultation process concluded earlier this month. All of the submissions received are under consideration and will be taken on board in the development of the Plan.

Discussions with key stakeholders will continue through bilateral engagements, and through the CAP Consultative Committee, where all the key stakeholders are represented. It is important that we consider the legitimate concerns of older farmers and the Department and I will continue to engage on this issue.